On October 27, 2026, the leaders of Finland and Norway held a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, discussing the possibility of ending the war in Ukraine. This conversation marks an important step in diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving peace in the region.
Consultations with Kyiv
Prior to the call to Moscow, President Alexander Stubb of Finland and Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre of Norway consulted with the Ukrainian side. Their goal was to convey Kyiv's position ahead of potential trilateral negotiations planned in Abu Dhabi.
Open Discussion
Stubb described the conversation with Putin as "frank and substantive." He emphasized that the leaders did not represent all of Europe but only their respective countries, indicating a desire for constructive dialogue. After the conversation with Putin, Stubb and Støre reached out to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss the details of the negotiations.
Context of the Negotiations
This conversation took place against the backdrop of intensified diplomatic efforts towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine. Last week, special envoy of former U.S. President Donald Trump Steve Witkoff also visited Moscow, having met with Zelensky and leaders from Northern Europe in Oslo. These events suggest a growing interest in peace talks and the possibility of reaching an agreement to end the war.