New Finnish President seeks nuclear deterrence tools from NATO
Finland's President Alexander Stubb (Photo: Getty Images)
In Finland, there must be genuine means of nuclear deterrence, however, the decision to change legislation for this purpose needs to be resolved by the parliament and the government, according to President of Finland Alexander Stubb.
During his election campaign, Stubb stated that he does not see any restrictions for Finland to participate in NATO and is ready to allow the transportation of nuclear weapons through Finnish territory, although not to store them in the country.
When asked about his views on nuclear weapons during his first press conference as president, Stubb said that the Finnish government and parliament should decide whether the country wants to change its current legislation, which prohibits the placement of nuclear weapons on Finnish soil, including their transfer.
"I would start from the premise that we in Finland must have a real nuclear deterrent, and that's what we have, because NATO practically gives us three deterrences through our membership," Stubb said.
According to him, these are the military, missiles, and means of nuclear deterrence that come from the United States.
What else did the new president say?
During his official inauguration in parliament, Stubb said he was ready to lead a new era after Finland's accession to NATO in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
"We are now facing a new era. As a result of our military alignment and NATO membership, we have taken the final step into the Western community of values, where our republic has spiritually belonged throughout its independence," Stubb said.
Stubb also named democracy, the rule of law, and human rights as the fundamental values on which Finland's foreign policy will be based under his leadership.
Elections in Finland
Former Prime Minister of Finland, conservative Alexander Stubb, won the presidential election. According to the vote count, Stubb received support from 51.6% of voters, while his opponent was supported by 48.4%. These are the first elections since Finland joined the NATO military alliance.
It should be noted that the head of the Finnish state bears direct responsibility for the country's foreign and security policy as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
Regarding the issue of Ukraine, Stubb stated that he does not agree that Ukraine should give up any part of its territory for peace with Russia. The future President of Finland also supports Ukraine's accession to the EU and promised to actively support this process.
Today, former Prime Minister of Finland Alexander Stubb took the oath of office as President of the country. He became the 13th head of state.
