Finland’s president says Russia unlikely to agree to peace deal soon

Friday 20 February 2026 - 12:00

By: Sahili Aya

Finland’s president says Russia unlikely to agree to peace deal soon

Finnish President Alexander Stubb has expressed skepticism that Russia will agree to a peace settlement in the near future, warning that the war in Ukraine could continue through the summer of 2026 despite renewed diplomatic engagement.

In a recent interview, Stubb stated that his “base case” scenario anticipates a prolonged conflict, even as the United States intensifies diplomatic contacts between Moscow and Kyiv. When asked who bears responsibility for the stalemate, he pointed directly to Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin, dismissing suggestions that Ukraine or Western governments are blocking progress.

Negotiations remain stalled over complex issues, including territorial control and the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Stubb rejected proposals to transform Russian-occupied areas in eastern Ukraine into a demilitarized economic zone, describing such ideas as unrealistic. Instead, he suggested that a potential pathway forward could involve a ceasefire along current front lines combined with the creation of a demilitarized buffer zone on both sides.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has recently described diplomatic efforts as “reinvigorated” following talks in Geneva, although substantial disagreements persist. European intelligence officials have cautioned that Moscow may be using negotiations to seek sanctions relief rather than pursuing a comprehensive peace agreement.

Stubb also addressed broader geopolitical tensions, including discussions surrounding Greenland, which he characterized as a test of Europe’s relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump. He emphasized the need for Europe to remain measured and united in its approach, particularly in matters of Arctic security and transatlantic cooperation.

As diplomatic channels remain open but fragile, Stubb’s remarks reflect growing concern among European leaders that a swift resolution to the conflict remains unlikely.