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Finland’s President Alexander Stubb has warned that the world has entered “a new nuclear age” as global security challenges intensify and the influence of nuclear weapons increases.
Speaking at the opening of Finland’s 254th National Defence Course in Helsinki on Monday, Stubb said the country’s security environment has become “harsher than we would prefer,” citing Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine as the main cause.
“The assessment of our security environment begins with Russia, its objectives and the means it employs to pursue these objectives,” Stubb said.
He emphasized that “one of these means is war,” noting that Russia “is now in its fourth year of war in Ukraine.”
Stubb underlined that Ukraine “is fighting not only for its own existence but also for the whole of Europe and democracy.” He added that Finland benefits from supporting Ukraine, as Kyiv’s experience in modern warfare provides valuable lessons.
“Ukraine has an unparalleled understanding of modern warfare, and we are learning a lot from them. Cooperation is a two-way street,” he said.
While stressing that Russia does not pose an immediate military threat to Finland, Stubb said continued investments in deterrence and defense are essential to prevent future risks.
Stubb described the current global environment as one of “multidimensional crises,” involving hybrid threats and the protection of physical, digital, and what he termed “mental infrastructure,” referring to the resilience and unity of society.
“We have moved on to a new nuclear age where, unfortunately, the role that nuclear weapons play has been increasing,” he said.
Reflecting on Finland’s defense strategy, Stubb highlighted the country’s growing cooperation with the United States, which he described as “thriving,” though he noted that America’s strategic focus “is turning partly elsewhere.”
He said Finland’s NATO membership, acquisition of 64 F-35 fighter jets, and increased defense spending are critical steps to safeguard national and regional security.
“Peace and freedom come at a price,” Stubb said, concluding that Finland’s defense posture must adapt to the evolving threats of the modern era.
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