According to Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, Estonia and Norway are neighbours of Russia and this helps us to understand the security situation in a similar way, “It is clear that we will by no means give in to the demands of Russia to change the underlying principles of European security,” Kallas emphasised. “NATO is not negotiating with Russia – it is a dialogue, and a prerequisite for any progress is an end to the military agression and threats of Russia,” she added.
The Estonian prime minister noted that Russia has no say in which countries can join NATO or in how NATO organises the defence of the territory of its Allies. “The military deterrence of NATO is also an issue that is decided only by NATO members and is not discussed with third countries,” Kallas said.
During the conversation, Prime Minister Kallas also emphasised the need to increase the defence and deterrence posture of NATO in our region. “The strengthening of the east flank of NATO must continue at an accelerated pace,” said Kallas. “We are working hard on this and are in close contact with all our allies, including the United States,” she added.
Kallas also thanked Støre for the contribution of Norway in ensuring the security of the Baltic States. “We highly value defence co-operation with Norway and your presence in Baltic Air Policing and NATO battle groups in our region,” Kallas emphasised.
At the end of the conversation, Prime Minister Kallas noted that we must remember that we have reached this situation due to Russian violence and force – Russia is occupying Crimea and fighting in eastern Ukraine and threatens to use even more force if their further demands are not accepted. “This week is full of diplomatic communication and we will see whether Russia is ready to ease tensions. At the moment, it does not look like it,” she said. Kallas added that we must also be ready for Russia to expand its military aggression against Ukraine. “Therefore, Ukraine needs our full support – both political and military – more than ever,” said Kallas.
