Finland's Foreign Minister Highlights Diplomatic Progress with Trump
In late March, Finland's President Alexander Stubb met with U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida, where the two leaders engaged in an extensive seven-hour golf session. During this informal yet significant meeting, Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen emphasized the importance of such dialogues for a smaller nation like Finland to connect with the U.S. leadership.
Valtonen conveyed that Stubb communicated a crucial message regarding the persistent threat posed by Russia. She noted that the challenges from Russia are unlikely to dissipate merely through the establishment of peace conventions, which currently seem unattainable. Thus, she underscored the necessity of ongoing support for Ukraine as a strategic response to these threats.
This meeting has been dubbed 'icebreaker diplomacy,' as Trump expressed interest in strengthening ties with Finland to facilitate U.S. purchases of icebreakers. Valtonen stated that Finland excels in constructing these vessels, leveraging Swedish technology in the process. Historically, the U.S. has faced legal hurdles in acquiring icebreakers from abroad, but Valtonen indicated that Trump has begun addressing these legal obstacles.
Valtonen also highlighted the strategic significance of icebreaker negotiations in light of increased activity from both Russia and China in the Arctic region. She pointed out that it is crucial for Western nations to invest in security within this area.
In 2024, under the previous Biden administration, the U.S. joined forces with Finland and Canada to establish the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE Pact), aimed at cooperating on advanced icebreaker projects. The involvement of Canada is partly due to a Helsinki-based shipyard that is owned by a Canadian firm.
Despite recent strains in U.S.-Canada relations and ongoing trade tensions with the EU, Valtonen assured that the ICE Pact remains robust. When questioned about potential complications arising from Trump's past comments regarding Greenland, Valtonen clarified that Greenland is undoubtedly part of Denmark and reiterated the importance of international law in matters concerning sovereign nations. She noted that recent elections in Greenland exemplify the principle that Greenlanders should determine their own future.
In response to concerns about potential military operations in Greenland's waters, Valtonen firmly stated that Finland would never participate in actions that could violate international law, emphasizing that the annexation of Greenland is not a feasible option.
Additionally, the Finnish government recently announced its intention to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty, which prohibits the use of anti-personnel mines. Valtonen explained that Finland's military has conducted thorough analyses in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine to determine its defense requirements. She asserted that these mines are necessary for effective self-defense, although Finland will continue to support nations impacted by landmines.
Valtonen expressed confidence that Finnish civilians are unlikely to be harmed by mines, noting that if conflict does not arise, there is virtually no chance of deploying mines within Finland. Furthermore, she mentioned that modern technology allows for precise digital marking of minefields to protect civilians.
During their golf match in Florida, Trump praised Stubb's skills, noting his proficiency as a player, which adds a personal touch to the diplomatic engagement between the two nations.