“Poland is a strategic ally and important partner to Estonia,” the head of state remarked. “A particular focus of our cooperation is the defence industry in our region, which supports not just Ukraine but regional security as a whole. Russia is not seeking peace. Ukraine is doing everything it can to achieve a ceasefire, but the Russians are doing nothing but issuing ultimatums and continuing to kill civilians.”
President Karis called for tighter sanctions on Russia, including its shadow fleet, and for increased military aid to Ukraine. “The EU must use its influence, and NATO’s defence spending target must rise to 5% of GDP,” he said, noting that Estonia will achieve that figure in 2026.
The meeting also underscored the importance of transatlantic cooperation and of the Nordic countries, the Baltic States and Poland working together. The head of state confirmed that Estonia’s presidency of the Nordic-Baltic Cooperation format in 2026 will provide an opportunity to further boost this cooperation.
Also discussed during the meeting were regional transport links, energy security, the adoption of renewable energies, partnerships in the digital and education fields, the mitigation of hybrid threats and developments in parliamentarianism and democracy.
Gallery: Raigo Pajula/Office of the President of the Republic of Estonia https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjChGkp
