Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has highlighted the importance of Ukraine continuing its military strikes on Russian infrastructure, especially in rear areas, despite European fears of potential escalation. According to Tsahkna, Russian President Vladimir Putin capitalizes on these fears to pressure European nations into withdrawing their support for Ukraine and halting Ukrainian strikes on Russian soil. However, he asserted that European partners have resisted such pressures.

Tsahkna noted that Putin seeks to instill a sense of threat, suggesting that the Baltic states and NATO’s eastern flank might be drawn into the conflict. Despite acknowledging these historical fears in the West, he emphasized that they should not dictate policy decisions. He added that calls to restrain Ukraine from striking within Russia have not materialized, with Ukraine’s ‘long-range sanctions’ proving effective as a deterrent.

Though incidents involving drones have raised concerns in the Baltic states, Tsahkna said these incidents should be viewed as inevitable consequences of Russia’s aggressive actions, directly attributing responsibility to Russia for escalating tensions. He rejected claims that Baltic countries or Finland had authorized Ukraine to use their territories for strikes, describing such narratives as false. This stance reiterates Estonia’s position on ensuring adequate defense preparations against potential Russian aggression. Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur also emphasized his country’s readiness beyond even NATO’s current level.

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