On January 21, 2026 at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Finnish President Alexander Stubb said Europe can “unequivocally” defend itself without the United States, arguing Finland’s conscription, reserves and heavy artillery provide credible deterrence. He cited Finland’s ability to mobilize about 280,000 troops, roughly one million trained through conscription, 62 F-18s and 64 recently purchased F-35s, while acknowledging some systems depend on U.S. support but expressing trust in U.S. interests aligning with European defense. Stubb later sought to clarify remarks taken out of context amid broader debate over European strategic independence. They reignited debate over NATO burden-sharing and urgency. (yle.fi)