The Kremlin has criticized Finnish President Alexander Stubb's remarks supporting Ukraine's long-range strikes into Russia, labeling him and British Prime Minister Andy Burnham as part of the "party of war." Stubb argued these attacks increase the cost of Russia's war effort and could push Moscow toward negotiations.
The exchange highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the Russia-Ukraine war, with Finland taking a firm stance in support of Ukraine's military actions, drawing sharp criticism from Russia.
The Kremlin has criticized Finnish President Alexander Stubb's remarks supporting Ukraine's long-range strikes into Russian territory, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating that Stubb, along with British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, belongs to the "party of war."
Stubb has backed Ukraine's strikes on targets such as oil refineries and logistics centers, arguing that these actions increase the cost of Russia's war effort and could help bring Moscow to the negotiating table. He also noted that Ukraine is in a stronger military, political, and financial position than it was a year ago.
Speaking at a press conference following a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing in Kyiv, Stubb advocated for partners to help expand Ukraine's deep-strike capabilities. He suggested that increasing the military and economic costs for Russia is essential for pushing Moscow toward genuine peace negotiations, citing that 65% of Russians reportedly want the war to end.
Peskov accused Stubb and other Western leaders of misleading their own voters by claiming Russia could be strategically defeated. Stubb, however, stated that Nato leaders understand why Ukraine is conducting these strikes and believe that continued pressure is necessary.