Finnish president could be suitable mediator in possible EU-Russia talks, MEP says

Finnish President Alexander Stubb could become a suitable figure to take part in possible negotiations between the European Union and Russia, according to French Member of the European Parliament Thierry Mariani.

Mariani said that Stubb combines firmness with pragmatism, and that Finland’s historical experience in relations with Russia could prove useful in dialogue, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“He also openly supports dialogue and has noted that peace often requires compromises,” the politician said.

At the same time, Mariani stressed that without a unified political mandate from the EU, the Finnish president would not have the necessary legitimacy or leverage.

On January 14, POLITICO published a report saying that European governments are pressuring the EU to appoint a negotiator to represent their interests on Ukraine, fearing the United States will stitch up a deal with Russia behind their backs. 

The same report read that supporters of the plan — including France and Italy — have secured support in the European Commission and among a handful of other countries for the post. It said Finnish President Alexander Stubb has often been considered a potential representative for Europe in any talks with Washington and Moscow. 

By Khagan Isayev