Finland’s Next President Pledges to Take Active Role in NATO

Former prime minister Alexander Stubb defeats Pekka Haavisto
Stubb represents continuity in foreign and security policy

Alexander Stubb speaks to members of the media following the second round of the presidential election at Helsinki City Hall on Sunday.Photographer: Roni Rekomaa/Bloomberg

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By Leo Laikola

February 11, 2024 at 1:04 PM EST

Updated on

February 12, 2024 at 9:18 AM EST

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Finland’s Alexander Stubb was elected the president of the newest member of NATO, committing to bring his nation to the core of the defense alliance as it seeks to keep neighboring Russia at bay.

Stubb will become the Nordic country’s 13th president March 1, following in the footsteps of Sauli Niinisto as head of state — a role where the central focus has traditionally been to safeguard independence and peace in Finland that’s flanked by a belligerent giant to its east.