Nordic Leaders Press Putin on Energy Ceasefire After Direct Call

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Finnish and Norwegian leaders used a direct phone call to press Russia for immediate de-escalation measures, specifically targeting the protection of energy and infrastructure systems.

On Tuesday, October 27, Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre initiated a conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two Nordic leaders acted on their own initiative to engage Moscow before speaking with Kyiv. They conveyed a clear message to Putin that real de-escalatory steps are needed regarding Ukraine's energy and infrastructure.

Following this call, Stubb and Støre briefed Zelenskyy on the conversation. This exchange continued discussions held in Oslo with representatives from America, Europe, and NATO. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the detailed briefing and the active support for Ukraine's diplomatic efforts.

The leaders also addressed preparations for a trilateral meeting scheduled for November. This gathering will involve teams from Ukraine, the United States, and Russia. Stubb and Støre noted that Finland and Norway have a particular interest in sound and reliable security arrangements because they border Russia.

The conversation included various methods for engaging with European partners to sustain diplomatic efforts. These measures aim to strengthen Ukraine's defense and promote shared security. Zelenskyy emphasized that peace and de-escalation are necessary, and Russia must stop dragging out the war.

This diplomatic push follows recent shifts in public statements from both sides. In early October, Putin said he was ready to resume peace talks on terms acceptable to Russia. These terms include the occupation of the entire Donbas, Ukraine's neutral status, and security guarantees for Russia. On October 24, Zelenskyy said he was ready for a peace deal that would freeze the war along the current front line. He clarified that Ukraine would not agree to recognize temporarily occupied territory as Russian. On October 25, Zelenskyy identified an energy ceasefire or a trilateral meeting of leaders as signs of Russia's readiness for peace.