Icebreakers and golf spark Trump and Finnish leader's unlikely friendship

The article discusses the unlikely friendship between former Finnish Prime Minister Alexander Stubb and former US President Donald Trump. Despite their political differences, the two leaders found common ground through shared interests in icebreakers and golf. Stubb, who has emerged as a key voice for Europe at the White House during the Ukraine war, has managed to maintain a cordial relationship with Trump. The two leaders first met in 2017 and bonded over their shared passion for icebreakers, which are crucial for navigating the icy waters of the Nordic region. Their friendship deepened further when they played golf together, with Trump reportedly enjoying Stubb's competitive spirit and sense of humor. This unlikely bond has allowed Stubb to serve as a conduit between the US and Europe, particularly during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The article highlights the importance of personal relationships in diplomacy, even between leaders with vastly different political ideologies, and how these connections can be leveraged to address global challenges.