Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his Finnish counterpart, Alex Stubb, held an hour-long phone call on Tuesday to forge a common stance on ending the war with Russia, a key step in Zelensky’s broader strategy to leverage the recent Gaza peace deal for a new diplomatic push.
The discussion, which Zelensky said was to “coordinate their positions,” signals a deliberate effort by Ukraine to build a strong, unified front among its European allies. This unity is crucial as Zelensky directs his primary appeal towards the United States to take a leading role in a new peace initiative.
This diplomatic maneuvering is being publicly framed by Zelensky’s praise for US President Donald Trump’s “success” in brokering the Gaza peace plan. Zelensky is using the Mideast agreement as a proof-of-concept to argue that decisive American leadership can end the war in Ukraine as well.
“The war in Europe can also be brought to an end, and for that, the leadership of both the United States and other partners is of utmost importance,” Zelensky stated, highlighting the dual importance of US action and partner solidarity.
While the diplomatic front is being strengthened, the military front remains perilous. Zelensky continues to report on Russian attacks on civilian targets, underscoring the immediate need for more robust air defenses. His coordination with Finland is therefore part of a comprehensive strategy that combines diplomatic alignment with a persistent demand for military aid.
In Hour-Long Call, Zelensky and Finnish President Stubb Forge Common Stance on Peace
