When the war ends, Russia will face at its borders two militarily committed, capable neighbors facing a common enemy. Poland and Ukraine are bound together more strongly than at any other time in history.

Finland and Sweden’s expected accession to NATO is the most significant collateral damage incurred by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine yet.

Finland’s example demonstrates that resilience takes resolve and resources, spent on national security and educating the citizenry about the country’s place in the world.

As the U.S. presidential election approaches on November 8, Carnegie.ru asked three experts, one in Russia, one in the United States, and one in Europe, to comment on the question: “Is the break between the Putin administration and the West permanent?”

Keeping open the option of NATO membership is key for Finland. But it is also a line in the sand for Russia.

Finland has found a way to reconcile with Russia. Yet this great-power neighbor remains Helsinki’s insoluble security dilemma.