Three-quarters of Finns do not feel that Russia is a threat to Finland’s security. The poll shows that public attitudes have not changed dramatically in the past year, despite the recent events in the Ukraine. Supporters of the Greens and Left Alliance are least concerned about Russian aggression.
Minister for Foreign Trade Alexander Stubb commented on the poll’s findings on Saturday from Brussels:
“This is a really good thing. It is a sign that we Finns are very clever - a rational and peaceful people.”
What does the Minister think? Should Finland be afraid of Russia?
“Not in my opinion. Russia has been our neighbour for a long time. We have been a part of Russia, and have had our difficulties with Russia in course of our history. Sometimes things go really well and other times things are worse. Just now we are going through a difficult phase,” said Stubb.
Doubts about economic sanctions
The poll also shows the majority of Finns are not eager to pursue economic sanctions against Russia. Close to 60 percent of respondents feel Finland should not actively support the implementation of economic sanctions because Russia is so economically important to Finland.
Less than one-third encourage decision-makers to embark on economic sanctions, even if they were to have a negative impact on the Finnish economy. Stubb responded to the question whether the Finnish government should listen to the public on this issue and change direction:
“Of course results like this always have an effect. We analyse a large variety of data. I am nevertheless more worried about the economic situation in Russia than precision sanctions,” he said.
