Archive · 14 Aug 2025
Finland's President Stubb's Golfing Diplomacy with Trump on Russia
Finland's President Stubb, a golf enthusiast, unexpectedly became friends with former U.S. President Trump.
They talk on the phone a lot!
This friendship is helping European leaders communicate with Trump about Russia.
Stubb tells Trump what Europe thinks and then tells Europe what Trump thinks.
Since their golfing get-together, Trump seems more willing to work with Europe on the issue.
Basically, the golfer-president is helping to bridge the gap between the U.S. and Europe on dealing with Russia.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb developed an unexpected friendship with Donald Trump through golf.
Stubb has become a back channel for European officials seeking to influence Trump's dealings with Russia.
Stubb and Trump regularly exchange texts and calls, discussing various topics, including golf and geopolitical issues.
Trump has shifted his stance on Russia, aligning more closely with European calls for bolstering Ukraine's defenses after meeting Stubb.
Stubb's connection with Trump is seen as valuable by both European and Ukrainian officials.
- Who
- Finnish President Alexander Stubb and former U.S. President Donald Trump.
- What
- Finnish President Alexander Stubb is using his relationship with Donald Trump to facilitate communication between Europe and the U.S. regarding Russia.
- When
- The relationship developed over several months, starting with a golf game in West Palm Beach.
- Where
- The interaction primarily occurs through calls, texts, and meetings, including a golf course in Florida.
- Why
- To influence Trump's stance on Russia and serve as a conduit for European perspectives.
European Views
U.S. Perspective
Value of Stubb's Relationship
European Views
European officials view Stubb's connection with Trump as a welcome shift, especially on the Russia issue.
U.S. Perspective
This article doesn't explicitly state any counter viewpoints. This is a report of European official's opinions.
- Finnish President
- Alexander Stubb
- Former US President
- Donald Trump
- Primary activity
- Facilitating communication between Europe and Trump on Russia
- Started with
- A golf game
- Stubb's Previous career
- Worked in finance and academia