Alexander Stubb urges Europe to remain calm and continue its support for Ukraine in the face of Russia's hybrid attacks

President of Finland Alexander Stubb urged Europeans not to “overreact” to hybrid and sabotage attacks attributed to Russia, in an interview with Politico in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. He warned that Moscow is trying to spread fear and persuade Western states to reduce their support for Ukraine.

Stubb argued that Europe must remain vigilant but calm and clear-headed, as every disproportionate reaction may serve the Kremlin’s objectives. The Finnish president stated that, according to the available information, there is Russian activity along Finland’s borders, but no imminent military threat. He emphasized that Russia has neither the interest nor the capacity to move toward a large-scale military escalation.

The statements come after warnings from Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the head of the Czech security service regarding possible provocations, incursions, or influence campaigns. Stubb praised Germany for publicly attributing to Russia the attempted drone attack in Leipzig, but criticized alarmist messages about a possible invasion. Baltic officials, for their part, said that there are no indications of an imminent attack and urged the public to continue their activities and support Ukraine.