Finland's president warns world has entered a new nuclear age

Finnish President Alexander Stubb has issued a stark warning about global security, stating that the world has entered "a new nuclear age" during his address at the opening of Finland's National Defence Course in Helsinki. The president framed Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine as the central challenge shaping a deteriorating security landscape in Europe. He emphasized that Finland's strategic assessment must begin with an analysis of Russian objectives and methods, noting the conflict has entered its fourth year.

Russia as the Defining Security Challenge

President Stubb left no ambiguity about the source of regional instability, stating, "The assessment of our security environment begins with Russia, its objectives and the means it employs to pursue these objectives." He portrayed Ukraine's struggle as a defense of broader European values, asserting that the country "is fighting not only for its own existence but also for the whole of Europe and democracy." While acknowledging no immediate military threat to Finland, Stubb stressed that sustained investment in deterrence is crucial for preventing future risks.

Learning from Modern Warfare and Multidimensional Crises

The Finnish leader highlighted the reciprocal benefits of supporting Ukraine, noting that Kyiv provides invaluable insights into contemporary combat. "Ukraine has an unparalleled understanding of modern warfare, and we are learning a lot from them. Cooperation is a two-way street," Stubb remarked. He described the current era as one of "multidimensional crises," involving not just traditional military threats but also hybrid attacks that target digital infrastructure and societal resilience, which he termed "mental infrastructure."

Strategic Positioning in a Shifting Global Order

Looking beyond Europe, President Stubb acknowledged a shifting American focus, even while describing Finland's military cooperation with the US as "thriving." He pointed to Finland's recent accession to NATO, its procurement of 64 F-35 fighter jets, and increased defense spending as necessary costs for maintaining "peace and freedom." His declaration of a new nuclear age underscores a global trend where nuclear deterrence is regaining prominence, a significant concern for all NATO members, including Türkiye, which plays a critical role in the alliance's southern flank.