"Finland's Presidential Election in the Shadow of Russia's Threat"

Finland is holding a presidential election with nine candidates vying to succeed President Sauli Niinistö, whose term expires in March. The leading contenders are former Prime Minister Alexander Stubb and ex-Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto. The election comes at a time when Finland, now a NATO member, faces a changed security environment due to its eastern border with Russia and the war in Ukraine. The new president will play a crucial role in formulating foreign and security policy, particularly in dealing with countries outside the European Union.