According to Prime Minister Kallas, we need to take quick and specific steps to make Putin clearly understand that NATO is prepared to firmly defend every inch of its territory. “We welcome the decisions already made to reinforce our collective defence, but considering the changed security situation in Europe, NATO needs to switch to a defensive position. We need more stationed NATO forces, supplies, and capabilities in Estonia,” Kallas said. Prime Minister Kallas also emphasised that our objective is stopping the Russian war machine and sanctions are the best way to do that.
Reinforcing the security of NATO member states requires the contribution of every allied nation. “Whenever a member state increases its security investments, it bolsters us all,” Kallas noted. The prime minister acknowledged the contribution of Turkey to NATO’s air security. “I also invited Turkey to join the Baltic Air Policing mission in Ämari, which will hopefully transform into an air defence mission.”
When discussing support for Ukraine, Kallas emphasised that our comprehensive aid will need to continue in the long term. “Our first priority is armaments, including air defence and anti-tank equipment,” the prime minister said. Estonia was one of the first countries that provided military aid to Ukraine. The prime minister added that joint efforts are necessary to accept Ukrainian war refugees. “Throughout the years, Turkey has taken in many war refugees, and I extended my gratitude to President Erdoğan for also welcoming the people of Ukraine,” Kallas said.
