Stubb relays two Zelenskyy messages to Putin

Finnish President Alexander Stubb stated on October 31 that he delivered two specific messages from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Russian President Vladimir Putin during a phone conversation held on October 27.

The first message conveyed Zelenskyy's willingness to engage in direct talks with Putin, with a focus on territorial disputes and security arrangements. The second message detailed Kyiv's current proposals for de-escalation. These proposals include possible ceasefires for energy facilities, measures for food security, prisoner-of-war exchanges, and broader infrastructure protection.

Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre initiated the phone call with Putin on their own initiative on October 27. During the discussion, the two European leaders asked Putin about Russia's preparations for upcoming trilateral talks scheduled for Abu Dhabi. Stubb described the call as frank and businesslike, noting that it provided an opportunity to gauge how Putin planned to approach the negotiations.

When asked if the call brought peace closer, Stubb characterized it as a confidence-building step rather than a decisive breakthrough. He noted that while no backward steps were taken, the primary goal of the initial contact was establishing trust. Stubb also clarified that there is no rush to restore full relations with Russia, suggesting a step-by-step approach moving forward.

The Finnish president added that he and Støre told Putin that they oppose the activities of the Russian shadow fleet in the Baltic Sea. Stubb also refuted media reports claiming that Putin lectured him and Støre on history during the conversation.

Following the call, Zelenskyy said that Stubb and Støre made it clear to Putin that real de-escalatory steps are needed regarding Ukrainian energy and infrastructure. The Ukrainian president indicated that there are signs Russia is serious about holding a meeting of negotiating teams in Abu Dhabi.

The next scheduled step is the trilateral meeting in Abu Dhabi, where negotiating teams are expected to convene. Stubb and Støre have indicated they will continue to monitor Russia's approach to the talks as the date nears.