In a world filled with uncertainties, President Alexander Stubb of Finland emerges as a voice of rationality and diplomacy. Upon returning from an overnight trip to Florida, where he met with Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Stubb’s enthusiasm and confidence shine through, showcasing his optimism towards the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and Europe's collective security.

Striking a unique balance between camaraderie and diplomacy, Stubb conveys that instead of panicking about Trump’s administration, Europeans should take a step back—"calm down, take a nice bath, take a sauna, take a deep breath"—and prioritize engagement with one another and their allies. This message was likely intended for the UK’s Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer, during his recent visit.

Finland, with its long-standing 830-mile border with Russia and a population of only 5.6 million, stands as a formidable model of security and vigilance. Throughout history, its geographical position has necessitated a careful approach to international relations, especially towards its much larger neighbor. Yet, remarkably, Finland remains one of the happiest countries in the world in 2025, demonstrating the resilience of its people.

During his meeting with Trump, Stubb enjoyed not only casual conversations over breakfast and a round of golf but also an opportunity to discuss critical issues facing Ukraine. Stubb, an avid golfer with a scholarship background, undoubtedly created a friendly atmosphere to foster dialogue. Trump himself mentioned their successful golfing outing on social media, highlighting Stubb's prowess.

But the stakes extend far beyond golf. Stubb exudes faith that the U.S. is beginning to recognize the urgency around Russia's aggression. "Time is running out for Russia," he insists, leveraging the diplomatic connections he believes Trump has with European leaders, notably Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has prompted harsh realities. Following a recent ceasefire proposal that Russia rejected, Stubb stresses the potential need for increased sanctions against Russia, focusing on oil tariffs and targeting frozen Russian assets across Europe—especially the €230 billion ($250 billion) that remains stagnant in European banks. Such moves could compel Putin towards negotiations, a sentiment echoed by various global leaders.

Stubb emphasizes that Finland is militarily prepared for any scenario. With conscription for men and voluntary service for women, Finland boasts an impressive reserve of trained personnel and an arsenal that includes advanced F-35 jets and a formidable artillery force, allowing for rapid mobilization if necessary. This readiness is a product of a history marked by conflict—from legacy wars with Russia in the 19th century to the Winter War of 1939, where Finland displayed remarkable resilience against Soviet forces.

Turning towards the future, President Stubb acknowledges the geopolitical shifts in Europe and the urgent need for nations to adopt a more robust and united defense posture. He believes the ongoing conflict and changes in the transatlantic relationship signal a wake-up call for European nations about their security obligations.

Despite historical complexities, Finland's example illustrates that effective defense strategies can inspire confidence in Europe’s ability to deter aggression. Stubb is hopeful about the role Britain will play in strengthening these ties, noting that this relationship could evolve into a pragmatic collaboration that addresses modern security needs more effectively.

In conclusion, as President Stubb navigates the intricacies of international diplomacy, his approach advocates a strong, united, and proactive European stance against threats from Russia. By blending personal rapport with strategic dialogue, he sets the stage for a future where Europe's security is not merely reactive, but decisively forward-looking.