NATO Returns to Its Core Mission of Deterrence Against Russia, Says Finnish President Stubb

NATO is returning to its primary mission—deterrence and defense against threats from the East, primarily from Russia. According to the Finnish President Alexander Stubb following a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, as reported by the Finnish outlet Verkkouutiset.

“I am convinced that we are now witnessing the formation of NATO 3.0. We are returning to the original role of deterrence, which NATO was meant to fulfill as a powerful military alliance when the threat comes from the East, predominantly from Russia,” Stubb said.

Alexander Stubb stressed that Finland is actively participating in NATO’s solidarity efforts and in improving the alliance’s command structures. Notably, Finland, together with the United States and other northern allies, will be part of NATO’s Joint Command in Norfolk, USA.

Furthermore, Finland and Sweden are working together to create an advanced land group to strengthen NATO’s northern flank.

“We will continue our strong support for Ukraine in its resistance to Russian invasion and its efforts to join NATO when the time is right,” said the Finnish president.

Stubb underscored NATO’s return to its deterrence role against growing threats from Russia, calling this phase “NATO 3.0.” He reaffirmed Finland’s commitment to contributing to regional security alongside its NATO allies, emphasizing the importance of collective defense for stability in Europe.

Earlier reports indicated that Finland has decided to host NATO’s Land Command for Northern Europe in Mikkeli. The establishment of this new headquarters aligns with NATO’s broader efforts to strengthen its eastern flank, building on the presence of existing multinational battlegroups in the Baltic states and Poland, aimed at countering potential threats from the East.