The President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, has expressed his willingness to represent the EU in peace negotiations with Russia, emphasizing the need for a firm ceasefire.

The President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, announced his willingness to represent the European Union in potential peace negotiations with Russia to end the war in Ukraine. The statement was made in an interview with Yle Radio Suomi, where Stubb stated that he would not refuse such a responsibility if requested by European leaders. He emphasized that he is open to dialogue with the Kremlin only after Russia accepts a firm ceasefire. Stubb criticized the current approach of Washington, suggesting that Europe should initiate direct contacts with Moscow. This position comes in the context in which the U.S., through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, announced a withdrawal from the peace process. The European Union is actively seeking a special envoy for negotiations, and EU foreign ministers will discuss potential candidates and criteria for resuming negotiations during an informal meeting in Cyprus on May 27-28.