Helsinki: Finland's President Alexander Stubb has expressed concerns that US-led negotiations between Russia and Ukraine may have reached an impasse. Speaking to European media ahead of a Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) summit in Helsinki, Stubb highlighted a lack of progress following three rounds of negotiations conducted over the winter.

According to Anadolu Agency, Stubb suggested that the ongoing war in Iran might be diverting attention away from Ukraine, potentially contributing to the stagnation of talks. He also indicated that the negotiations might have hit a dead end, primarily due to territorial disputes, particularly in the Donetsk region. Stubb, who is in regular contact with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump, remarked that despite the American negotiators' efforts, the primary issue is Russia's apparent reluctance for peace.

As European leaders convene in Helsinki for the JEF summit, a UK-led security initiative involving Nordic and Baltic countries and the Netherlands, security guarantees for Ukraine are expected to dominate discussions. While President Zelenskyy is set to participate remotely, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store will attend in person.

Stubb emphasized the importance of increasing pressure on Moscow in the absence of renewed negotiations, though he acknowledged the challenges posed by broader geopolitical developments. He noted that the war in Iran and the US decision to ease sanctions on Russian oil sales are complicating efforts to steer the situation in the desired direction.

The Finnish president also underscored Europe's significant role in supporting Ukraine, highlighting that European countries now provide the majority of economic and military assistance. Despite these efforts, Stubb admitted uncertainty about the conflict's future trajectory and diplomatic efforts. He noted that while there is a better understanding of Russian tactics, the path forward remains unclear.