politics
February 17, 2026
Nordic leaders back long-range strikes on Russia
Denmark’s Mette Frederiksen and Finland’s Alexander Stubb have called for long-range weapons deliveries to Ukraine
TL;DR
- Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Finnish President Alexander Stubb are urging Western nations to provide Ukraine with long-range weapons.
- These weapons would enable Ukraine to strike deep into Russian territory, a capability they argue is necessary to win the war.
- Moscow has warned that supplying such weapons would be a major escalation and would trigger an "overwhelming" response.
- Discussions about providing these weapons have been ongoing for years without a positive decision.
- Finland's President Stubb also suggested increasing economic pressure on Russia and providing all necessary means, including Tomahawk missiles.
- Ukraine's President Zelensky has previously sought long-range missiles from the US, but was reportedly turned down.
- Denmark is involved in producing solid rocket fuel for Ukrainian cruise missiles on NATO territory, which Russia has accused Denmark of supporting terrorism over.
- Russia claims to have intercepted Ukrainian missiles and destroyed production lines.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin warned in 2025 of a strong response to long-range strikes on Russian territory.