The Davos Declaration: Why Finland’s President believes Europe is Ready to Stand Alone

For decades, the "defense of Europe" was a phrase that implicitly ended with "by the United States." On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, Finnish President Alexander Stubb removed the suffix.

1. The Numbers Behind the Confidence

Stubb’s argument isn't based on rhetoric, but on the massive remilitarization seen since 2022. He highlighted Finland’s own "Total Defense" model as a blueprint:

* Mobilization Power: Finland can call up 280,000 troops within weeks from a pool of one million trained reservists.

* Air Power: The transition to a fleet of 64 F-35 fighter jets gives the Nordic-Baltic region a technological edge that was previously exclusive to the US.

2. The "Trump Factor" and Strategic Insurance

The timing of Stubb’s remarks is critical. US President Donald Trump’s recent 10-25% tariff threats against eight European allies (including Finland) and the ongoing friction over Greenland have created a "transatlantic transition."

Europe isn't pushing the US away; it is preparing for a world where US interests might shift toward the Pacific or become entangled in domestic protectionism. By stating that Europe is "building a new NATO where Europe takes more responsibility," Stubb is attempting to future-proof the alliance.

3. "Wars are Won at Home"

Perhaps the most insightful part of Stubb’s message was that defense isn't just about tanks and jets. He pointed to Finland’s comprehensive security:

* Reserves: Strategic stockpiles of food, energy, and medicine that prevent societal collapse during a blockade.

* Social Cohesion: High levels of trust in government and education as the ultimate "software" of national defense.

4. The New Power Centers: Helsinki and Warsaw

Stubb’s alignment with Poland signals a shift in European leadership.

#Geopolitics #AlexanderStubb #EuropeanDefense #NATO2026 #SecurityAutonomy #Finland #Davos2026