World
Norway and Finland Leaders Discuss Ukraine War with Putin
Leaders from Norway and Finland held a phone call with Vladimir Putin regarding the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing direct discussions.

On Tuesday, the leaders of Norway and Finland, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and President Alexander Stubb, engaged in a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine. They characterized the discussion as "frank and substantive," focusing on efforts aimed at resolving the conflict.
According to multiple sources, this conversation comes in the context of increasing diplomatic efforts regarding the situation in Ukraine, including recent discussions between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and American emissaries in Oslo. This indicates a broader international interest in mediating the conflict and finding a pathway towards peace.
While specifics about the content of the discussions were not disclosed, both leaders reaffirmed their countries' longstanding support for Ukraine. This has been seen as an attempt to navigate complexities in European security matters, particularly as the war in Ukraine continues to have far-reaching implications for the region.

The talks have not been well-received by all quarters; Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressed criticism of Norway and Finland for initiating direct dialogue with Putin without prior coordination with fellow European allies. Such reactions highlight tensions within the Nordic countries regarding engagement with Russia before upcoming peace talks.
Both leaders suggested that the outcome of the conflict in Ukraine is significant not just for the nation itself but also for broader European security. They believe that resolving the conflict necessitates open lines of communication with all parties involved, including Russia, as indicated in statements released following the call.
Following this discussion with Putin, Støre and Stubb plan to speak with Ukrainian President Zelensky, indicating an ongoing commitment to supporting Ukraine while attempting to bridge conversations between all involved parties in the conflict. This approach reflects the delicate diplomatic balance that Finland and Norway are navigating in their roles as regional leaders.