It wasn’t small talk that broke the ice between Donald Trump and Finland’s President Alexander Stubb; it was actual icebreakers – massive 9,000-tonne ships – that cemented their burgeoning business and personal relationship. Trump was all smiles during their Oval Office meeting, leaning in and nodding in agreement with the man who has become an unlikely European voice in Washington.
“We’ve been friends for a long time,” Trump remarked, seated across from Stubb under a painting of George Washington. Their hour-long discussion focused on a significant deal for 11 Finnish icebreaker ships, a specialized nautical craft crucial for keeping Scandinavian ports open during harsh winters. Trump’s interest in these vessels is long-standing, and the deal includes building four of them in the US, utilizing Finnish expertise. Stubb highlighted this collaboration as a source of “investments, jobs, and hope,” sentiments that resonated with Trump, particularly given Finland’s strategic location near Russia and the ongoing “ridiculous” war in Ukraine.
The international spotlight has increasingly focused on Stubb’s role, with many seeing him as a key figure who can influence Trump’s perspective on Russia and the conflict in Ukraine. Experts note that Finland’s influence in Washington is amplified by the close personal relationship between its president and the former US president. Stubb’s blend of pragmatism, deep knowledge of Russia, unwavering support for Ukraine, and specialized technological know-how in icebreaker technology have earned Finland a significant, well-deserved role in transatlantic affairs.
While they may appear vastly different – Trump from a real estate background and Stubb from a more academic and political path, rising through roles like MEP, foreign minister, and prime minister before becoming president – their connection runs deep. Their relationship is characterized by frequent communication, sometimes weekly, through calls and texts, according to sources close to them. This personal touch was evident when Trump, upon learning of Stubb’s ability to bypass the White House’s ‘do not disturb’ setting, called him directly about the icebreaker deal.
Their shared passion for golf also plays a crucial role. Trump’s favorite pastime, and a sport at which Stubb was once a national representative for Finland, serves as a comfortable ground for discussion. Stubb’s impressive golfing skills have not gone unnoticed by Trump, who values talent and uniqueness. Their golfing sessions have provided opportunities for candid conversations about global issues, including Ukraine, allowing them to build a rapport and understanding.
During one such golf outing, Stubb recalled that Trump asked if he could trust Russian President Vladimir Putin. Stubb’s unequivocal “You cannot” reportedly had an immediate impact, with Trump later expressing significant anger towards Putin. This personal connection and open dialogue, facilitated by shared interests, underscore the unique dynamic between the two leaders, influencing not only business deals but also critical geopolitical discussions.
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