The President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, during a press conference at Riga Castle, Riga, Latvia, on September 16, 2025.
Getty Images/GINTS IVUSKANS/AFP
As reported by CNN
President of Finland Alexander Stubb told CNN in an interview that he would not issue an order to immediately shoot down unknown objects that would violate the country’s airspace. The decision on such actions would be made by the Finnish military.
Stubb believes that Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin is waging a hybrid war against Europe, constantly testing how countries react. He recalls last year’s incidents of damage to underwater cables in the Baltic Sea and emphasizes the need to remain calm and build defense in such a way that such incidents do not recur and the response remains measured.
During the conversation, the journalist asked whether Finland would shoot down air targets that violate Finland’s airspace. Stubb replied that he would not do so, but stressed that the final decision would depend on the specific situation, and would be made by the Finnish Air Force.
“I think this is a powerful deterrent factor, as the President of the United States says. In relations with Russia, a ‘carrot and stick’ approach is needed. At first we tried the carrot, and now President Trump is showing the stick. And I think that the statement about downing planes is part of this”
On September 26, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte noted that, if necessary, the military can take the “final step” and shoot down a plane, underscoring the Alliance’s readiness to respond to airspace violations by Russia.
“In the case of necessity, the military can take the ‘final step’ and shoot down a plane.”
Incidents of airspace violations by Russia have been reported not only in Poland. The night of September 10 will bring reports of the downing of several drones that violated Europe’s borders, as well as damage to civilian facilities. NATO’s actions in response and discussions among member countries are also noted. The events demonstrate rising tensions in the region and the importance of European solidarity in air security.
Substantively, Finland adheres to a cautious approach: decisions on any drastic measures will be taken on the basis of substantiated threats and in coordination with allies, to reduce the risk of escalation and strengthen regional security.
Don’t miss other news:
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