Europe Weighs Russia Dialogue Amid Ukraine War; Trump's Icebreaker Deal and 100-Day Mark

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has stated that Finnish calls for Europe to initiate dialogue with Russia regarding the Ukraine war reflect Finland's desire to be Europe's lead negotiator and mediator. Tsahkna believes there is no basis for talks with Russia, citing Vladimir Putin's blackmail tactics. Finnish President Alexander Stubb indicated agreement after a Paris summit that at least one European leader should contact Russia. Stubb has suggested that either France or the United Kingdom, as key coalition leaders, should initiate contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen echoed this wish, while emphasizing caution regarding the form of contact, stating that Finland does not consider Russia an enemy but opposes its actions violating international law. Tsahkna noted the coming weeks are crucial, as Donald Trump approaches 100 days in office during his second term as U.S. president at the end of April 2025. Retired Maj. Gen. Neeme Väli of the Estonian Defense Forces suggested that Europe's stance of ignoring Russia could lead to exclusion from talks with the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine. In late March 2025, Stubb visited Trump and secured a pledge for the U.S. to purchase icebreakers from Finland. Trump stated that he and Stubb look forward to strengthening the partnership between the United States and Finland, including the purchase and development of a large number of badly needed icebreakers for the U.S.