Ex-Prime Minister Alexander Stubb emerged victorious in Finland’s presidential election’s first round with 27.1% of votes, facing a runoff against runner-up Pekka Haavisto, who secured 25.8%.
None of the nine candidates reached a majority, leading to the upcoming second round.
Stubb expressed gratitude to supporters and acknowledged the upcoming challenging competition, while Haavisto celebrated his strong first-round performance.
The election marks Finland’s first since joining NATO. Initial voter turnout was 74.9%.
