Official Helsinki is more concerned about its own waters.
According to the President of the Republic, Alexander Stubb, the reluctance of NATO member countries to respond to U.S. President Donald Trump's request for help in the Strait of Hormuz is due to the fact that the U.S. did not consult its allies before taking military action.
"If partners are not informed in advance and are not warned about upcoming events, the approach will be different," Stubb said on Monday to students at the London School of Economics.
Trump warned European NATO allies of a "very bleak future" if they do not assist the U.S. in ensuring the safety of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. On Monday, the United Kingdom and Germany expressed their unwillingness to provide military support.
"Finland's Role in NATO Is to Ensure the Security of Northeastern Europe"
According to Stubb, Finland does not have the resources to participate in operations in the Strait of Hormuz.
"We do not have the kind of equipment that could be sent to that region. In any case, Finland's role in the alliance is to ensure the security of the northeastern part of Europe," Stubb noted.
Nevertheless, in an interview with Bloomberg, Stubb emphasized that Trump's statements should be taken seriously.
"Countries that can and want to help the U.S. should do so," he added.
Stubb pointed out the difference in the U.S. approach compared to previous conflicts.
"In Libya, Iraq, and Afghanistan, the U.S. consulted with international institutions or allies. The situation is different now," explained the President of Finland.
In Stubb's opinion, it is extremely important to once again convince Trump of the necessity of cooperation with Europe.
The war in the Middle East began two weeks ago when Israel and the U.S. carried out airstrikes against Iran and eliminated the Iranian Supreme Leader. In response, Iran attacked Israel and U.S. bases in the region.
Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen also stated that participation in ensuring the safety of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz is not a top priority for Finland. According to her, the safety of shipping in the Baltic Sea remains extremely important for Finland. She also reminded that Finland has a land border with Russia that stretches 1,340 kilometers. According to her, Russia remains the main threat to the alliance.
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