The article marks the four-year anniversary of Russia's large-scale war in Europe, which was initiated by President Vladimir Putin. It reflects on how this conflict has reshaped perceptions and realities in Finland and across Europe regarding security and military readiness. The piece emphasizes that, despite initial hesitation, Western countries have gradually increased their support for Ukraine, driven by fears of potential Russian retaliation.

The article highlights a significant shift in Western military assistance toward Ukraine, showing that last year, military support from European countries and institutions rose by 67%, while economic and humanitarian aid increased by 59%. This rise in support indicates a growing recognition of the necessity to stand against Russian aggression, spurred partly by the concerns raised by former U.S. President Donald Trump about the European security landscape.

Interestingly, while European nations have stepped up their assistance efforts, the article notes that direct military support from the United States has nearly ceased, affecting the overall quantitative support available to Ukraine. This situation reflects the complex dynamics of international relations and underlines the importance of sustained cooperation among Western nations to counter potential threats from Russia and maintain stability in Europe.