The head of state confirmed that Estonia and Lithuania understand the threats to European security in the same way, adding that NATO’s joint defence plans must be developed as one and their implementation practised. “The Baltic defence line, the joint development of our capabilities, collective defence procurements and the military presence of allies in our region are reinforcing our overall defence,” she remarked. “NATO acts to defend all its allies – that is something of which we are fully convinced.”
President Madise also advocated for enhanced defence cooperation between the Baltic States, the Nordic countries, Poland and Germany. “Europe must take greater responsibility for its own defence, since a stronger Europe means a stronger NATO,” she said. “It is up to us, to all allies in the Baltic Sea region, to maintain security cooperation with the United States.”
A collective approach must be taken to countering hybrid threats and protecting critical infrastructure, the head of state said. On this point, the meeting also touched on the recent arson attack on a Lithuanian warehouse containing Starlink equipment. “Our response to security threats must be greater confidence and enhanced readiness to defend ourselves,” President Madise urged.
The heads of state also discussed Ukraine. “We must step up our support for the Ukrainians and turn up the pressure on Russia, acting promptly to implement the next package of sanctions and reduce Russia’s ability to fund its war machine from oil and gas revenue,” President Madise stated. She stressed that Russia must be held to account for its actions and that the special tribunal on the crime of aggression against Ukraine must begin its work without delay.
The head of state outlined her view that the European Union should agree on a stricter visa policy towards Russians. “A permanent solution needs to be found to ensure that Russian citizens who have played a part in the war against Ukraine are unable to enter the Schengen area in future,” she said.
Discussing transport links, President Madise said that Rail Baltica would open up new prospects. “It will boost our economies, our links to Europe and our military mobility,” she
predicted. “We want to press ahead with construction and, with Latvia and Poland, secure the EU funding needed for it.”
On the topic of Estonian-Lithuanian relations, the head of state highlighted the benefits of cooperation between the two countries that people experience on a daily basis. “Cross-border digital prescriptions make it easier to access medicines, the rail link between Tallinn and Vilnius broadens our travel options, and disconnecting our electricity grid from Russia has improved our energy security,” she noted, outlining her view that Estonian companies investing in Lithuania and closer defence industry cooperation are bolstering the security and economies of both countries.
President Madise reiterated Estonia’s support for Lithuania’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2027.
The heads of state of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania will be meeting in Tallinn on 1 December to discuss how to further strengthen cooperation between their countries.
Gallery (Raigo Pajula/Office of the President)
