Finland explains itself regarding the conversation with Putin. "We are not seeking the role of mediator"

Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre spoke with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, marking Stubb's first contact since May 2022. This conversation follows Finland's decision to join NATO in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Elina Valtonen emphasized that any action promoting peace deserves support, countering claims that the call was an individual initiative. The Finnish presidential office clarified that Stubb and Støre acted as leaders of their countries, not as representatives of Europe. The discussion aimed to revive peace negotiations regarding Ukraine, which had been faltering, ahead of upcoming talks in Abu Dhabi involving Russia, Ukraine, and the USA.