Zelenskyy holds hour-long call with Finland's President Stubb before trip to Trump
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (photo: president.gov.ua)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a lengthy conversation with Finnish President Alexander Stubb ahead of his meeting with US President Donald Trump, according to a statement from the Ukrainian leader.
"Now, as the war in the Middle East is coming to an end, it is important not to lose the momentum of spreading peace. The war in Europe can also be ended, and for this, the leadership of both the United States and other partners is critical. Today, I spoke for almost an hour about all of this with Finnish President Alexander Stubb," Zelenskyy said.
He emphasized that he is coordinating positions with the President of Finland.
According to Zelenskyy, the United States' proper steps can also help stop Russia's war against Ukraine.
"We have a corresponding vision," he added.
During the conversation with Stubb, issues of recent Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure and the need to strengthen air defense were also discussed.
Zelenskyy thanked the President of Finland for his readiness to help and noted that Russia must be deprived of the ability to continue the war and terror, and "this can become the most reliable foundation for peace in our region.''
Zelenskyy–Trump meeting
According to media reports, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet with US President Donald Trump at the White House. According to RBC-Ukraine, the talks are scheduled for Friday, October 17.
According to the outlet's source, the leaders have recently discussed several important and sensitive topics — arms supplies, strengthening air defense, and diplomatic steps. These issues are challenging to coordinate remotely, so the parties decided to hold an in-person meeting.
Yesterday, Zelenskyy confirmed that he will visit Washington on October 17 at the invitation of the American president.
Stubb's role in the negotiations
Finnish President Alexander Stubb is actively involved in diplomatic processes related to Western security guarantees for Ukraine.
He plays a significant role in conveying Kyiv's and Europe's positions to US President Donald Trump — including through informal channels such as golf games.
Stubb was among the European leaders who visited Washington with Zelenskyy on August 18, following Trump's meeting in Alaska with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
In addition, on October 9, Stubb was again in Washington. During that visit, the main topic was the signing of an agreement with the United States on icebreaker cooperation. In this area, Finland has considerable experience and technological advantages.
