During an energy conference in Helsinki, President Alexander Stubb emphasized the need for the European Union to expand its membership significantly, suggesting that the bloc should aim for 40 states. He identified the U.K., Canada, Turkey, Norway, and Iceland as potential candidates for membership.
Stubb's remarks reflect a response to the changing geopolitical landscape, particularly in light of Russia's war in Ukraine and the shifting dynamics under the Trump administration. He warned that the opportunity for enlargement is limited, stating that once the war in Ukraine concludes and U.S. political dynamics shift, momentum for expansion may wane.
Stubb argued that European strategic autonomy is linked to the size and scale of the EU, asserting that enlargement has historically been beneficial. Currently, the EU is considering nine candidate countries, with Montenegro and Albania leading the charge from the Western Balkans, while Ukraine and Moldova are advancing towards formal membership discussions.
Stubb also highlighted the importance of Turkey in the context of security and urged a reevaluation of its candidacy. He expressed a desire for Canada to join the EU, contrasting it with the notion of becoming a U.S. state. The discussion around Iceland's potential EU accession is also gaining traction, with a referendum planned.
Overall, Stubb's vision for a larger EU could significantly impact the bloc's geopolitical stance and economic collaboration in the coming years