‘Finlandisation’ Without Illusions: Is It Possible for Ukraine Today?

A peaceful settlement in Ukraine will have profound consequences for the entire European continent. The European members of the political West will find themselves at a crossroads: either acknowledge the transformed security realities and engage in equitable, meaningful dialogue with Russia—taking its legitimate concerns into account—or prepare for a protracted confrontation with the aim of military revenge. The latter path would represent the worst possible embodiment of the historical analogy with twentieth-century Finland, writes Valdai Discussion Club Programme Director Anton Bespalov.