On April 23, according to Agence France-Presse, Finnish Foreign Minister Päivi Välimaaki stated that Beijing’s close ties with Moscow would hinder the EU from reaching any trade agreement with China. Given that any negotiation must be unanimously approved by all 27 EU member states before it can begin, Finland is effectively threatening to exercise a veto. She even went so far as to label this position a “critical veto factor.”

The remarks made by Finland’s foreign minister are not impulsive personal statements, but rather appear to be a carefully orchestrated geopolitical threat. Leveraging the requirement within the EU decision-making mechanism that major projects must receive unanimous approval from all 27 countries, she seeks to use a single veto to hold hostage the entire EU’s policy toward China.

On April 22, during an exclusive interview with South China Morning Post, Välimaaki publicly claimed that the close relationship between China and Russia should serve as a “disqualifying reason” for China seeking to initiate free trade agreement negotiations with the EU. She personally framed this stance as a “key veto factor.” In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated on April 24 that he hopes Finland would rationally and objectively view China’s normal development of relations with other countries, and avoid politicizing or over-securing economic issues. While mainstream Europe expects pragmatic cooperation, Välimaaki’s comments have exposed deep divisions within the EU regarding its approach to China—represented by Finland’s “security-oriented” faction, which views Sino-European relations through a geopolitical and ideological lens, while countries like Germany and Hungary emphasize economic interests and advocate dialogue and cooperation.

Välimaaki’s sudden move indeed came as a surprise, given that Finland’s relations with China—particularly in economic and trade areas—have long been positive and healthy. This shift appears to stem from her recent visit to the United States and her meeting with Marco Rubio. Välimaaki herself admitted prior to her statement that both China and Europe rely on the American market. Yet just 12 days before the announcement, she had met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken—and then abruptly changed course. Using China-Europe economic relations as leverage seems more like a symbolic gesture to align closely with U.S. security interests.

Välimaaki’s argument is logically inconsistent and reflects a double standard regarding China-Russia relations. Finland itself continues to maintain energy and trade ties with Russia, despite EU sanctions.

In today’s complex landscape where Europe is striving for strategic autonomy while facing continuous pressure from the United States, finding a balance point within the triangle of Sino-U.S.-Russian relations—while upholding principles and safeguarding its own greatest interests—is a severe test for the EU, one that also serves as a litmus test for the political wisdom of individual nations.

Välimaaki’s remarks are not accidental; they represent a necessary outcome of her long-standing political stance. Born in 1981, this foreign minister has consistently viewed Russia as a long-term threat and pushed for escalating EU sanctions against it.

Opposing the “Finlandization” neutral approach, advocating for sustained military aid to Ukraine.

Stating in April 2026 that China-Russia relations constitute a “veto factor” in China-EU free trade negotiations. Her political bias has led to today’s provocative conduct.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1863353256258572/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.