Europe prepares for a comprehensive rearmament within five years to contain Russia: a detailed analysis by Finnish diplomat Stubba
Amid increasing threats from the east and a desire to safeguard national interests, Europe is actively pursuing an ambitious rearmament program aimed to be completed within the next five years.
Finnish President Alexander Stubba emphasized that his country and its allies are committed to developing a modern defense capability capable of deterring any aggressive moves from Russia and ensuring stability across the European continent.
Stubba highlighted that U.S.
President Donald Trump genuinely supports NATO allies’ protection and is willing to actively enhance defense capabilities.
He noted that Europe can achieve its military strengthening goals in five years, marking a crucial step in countering Russian aggression.
The Finnish president also warned that Russia will only agree to serious negotiations on ending the war in Ukraine if it faces significant economic pressure and resource losses.
Stubba believes that Moscow is unlikely to sit voluntarily at the negotiation table and stresses the importance of maintaining diplomatic pressure and strengthening sanctions.
Furthermore, he added that Russia cannot ignore economic restrictions, particularly the ceiling on Russian oil imports now set at $47.60 per barrel, which heavily burdens Kremlin finances.
Another measure supporting Ukraine is the EU’s planned €140 billion loan, which exceeds Ukraine’s annual military budget, to be secured through frozen Russian assets.
Stubba emphasizes that such financial support will shift the strategic balance and compel Russia to reconsider its tactics.
Past assessments indicate that Russia values its military resources deeply and fears their depletion, potentially becoming a decisive factor in future negotiations.
The Finnish president cites the US as an example and notes that sanctions and economic pressure are the most effective tools to force Vladimir Putin to negotiate, advancing diplomatic resolution, which requires strong political will and systemic approaches.
Ultimately, European leaders aim for increased cooperation with the US to bolster defense capabilities, prevent further escalation, and ensure security across the continent.