NATO Guarantees Would Be Best for Ukraine – Estonian Prime Minister
NATO guarantees would be the best possible option for Ukraine and for peace across the European continent, Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal said ahead of the NATO summit on June 25, The Gaze reports, citing Ukrinform.
“The most important point is that we must fully support Ukraine. Ukraine belongs to NATO, to Europe. That’s clear. And all the guarantees that come from NATO are probably the best guarantees for Ukraine in terms of future support and security, and also for a just and lasting peace,” the Estonian head of government emphasized.
He noted that as long as Russian ruler Vladimir Putin does not change his objectives, Russia will continue to pose a threat to all NATO countries — especially those in Europe.
“I would say that we should not be afraid, but we should be ready. And… we will be ready. Investing in defense likely helps us be prepared rather than afraid. So we are helping Ukraine with everything we have. Our spending on Ukraine amounts to 0.3% of our GDP this year. And if we can do more, we will do more,” Michal pledged.
The prime minister described the ongoing summit as “a historic moment,” highlighting that NATO member states are increasing defense spending to 5% of GDP — a move he said signals that “the Alliance will become much stronger, more lethal.”
He emphasized that Estonia not only supports this target but will itself raise defense spending to 5.4% of GDP next year, expressing hope that this will set an example for other countries.
“This is also a signal to our allies and friends that NATO is strong, and NATO members are strong,” Michal stressed. He expressed confidence that Article 5 of the NATO Treaty works and affirmed Estonia’s readiness to stand by its allies should the need arise.
He added that the Baltic and Nordic countries have long understood what Russia represents — even though others did not always listen to them in the past.
Michal also underscored the need to ramp up defense industry capabilities and invest in them, warning that Russia will soon produce in three months the amount of ammunition NATO countries currently manufacture in an entire year.
Read more on The Gaze: NATO Summit 2025: Will the Alliance Stand with Ukraine?