Therefore, the UN must be extremely serious about solving the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and resist attempts to divide the world into spheres of influence with military aggression once again, he said.
"Europe's contribution to the UN's budget and aid in various regions of the world is remarkable. However, it may not be sustainable, if European states – who up until now have been important guarantors of general security – have to focus more on ensuring their own security. Increasing defence capabilities must come at the expense of something, after all, " the Estonian Head of State noted, saying that the annexation of Crimea and Russia's intervention in the Ukrainian military conflict has shattered the security architecture that previously existed in Europe.
President Ilves also recalled his speech at the General Debate of the UN's General Assembly, stating that the world organisation has an obligation to maintain international peace.
"The UN Security Council has been paralysed where multiple crises have been created. It forces us to take a more serious look at the need to reform the UN so that it could meet the international challenges of today," President Ilves said.
Yesterday's discussion was led by the President of the International Peace Institute, Terje Rød-Larsen.
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