In a notable move, Estonia is poised to finalize a bilateral security agreement with Ukraine, aligning with the G7 Joint Declaration to support Ukraine, stated Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna. This announcement was made on March 8 at a joint press conference in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius.
In the face of Russia’s full-scale invasion, the foreign ministers of Ukraine, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and France gathered to deliberate on amplifying assistance for Ukraine.
“A long-term commitment is in store as we schedule the signing of a bilateral Estonia-Ukraine agreement. Estonia has invested 1.4% of its GDP towards the triumph of Ukraine, and this support will persist,” communicated Tsahkna during the conference.
Estonia has demonstrated its support as one of the robust military donors to Ukraine, measured by GDP proportion, since the conflict’s escalation in 2022. Tallinn committed a significant 1.2 billion euros ($1.3 billion) for Kyiv which will span until 2027, an impressive pledge from the nation of merely 1.3 million citizens.
Tsahkna also revealed that the Estonian administration is set to sanction a fresh military aid package for Ukraine by the following week.
“With the signature of this Estonia-Ukraine bilateral agreement, a promise is being made, affirming a commitment of 0.25% of Estonia’s GDP for military support annually,” said the Estonian Foreign Minister, emphasizing the obligation.
Tsahkna called upon other allies for contributions, suggesting that a yearly provision of 120 billion euros ($131.2 billion) in military support “would suffice for Ukraine to repel Russian forces.”
The G7 group unanimously consented to a joint declaration on March 8, 2023, regarding “security guarantees” for Ukraine at the NATO summit in Vilnius, which is intended to establish clear, enduring commitments to enhance Ukraine’s defensive capabilities against Russian enmity.
Previously, Tallinn dispatched Javelin anti-tank missiles, ammunition, and further military assistance to Ukraine as part of an 80 million euros ($86 million) military aid package resolved in December.
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“Words, words, just words,” uttered a prominent attendee at the Munich Security Conference, reflecting on the discussion about security cooperation by representatives from three European Union member states. “China will interpret the message: ‘They pose no threat,’” another added, critiquing the impact of European defense signals during the conference.
FAQ Section
What is the significance of the bilateral agreement between Estonia and Ukraine?
The agreement signifies Estonia’s long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense and stands as a model for other countries to provide aid in the face of Russian aggression.
How much has Estonia pledged to support Ukraine?
Estonia has pledged to support Ukraine with 1.2 billion euros ($1.3 billion) until 2027, amounting to 1.4% of Estonia’s GDP.
What has Estonia supplied to Ukraine in terms of military aid?
Estonia has provided Javelin anti-tank missiles, ammunition, and other types of military support, including a military aid package worth 80 million euros ($86 million) approved in December.
What is the G7 Joint Declaration?
The G7 Joint Declaration is an agreement by the Group of Seven nations to offer security guarantees to Ukraine, intended to provide explicit and long-term commitments to boost Ukraine’s defense against Russian invasion.
Conclusion
The forthcoming signing of the security agreement between Estonia and Ukraine underlines Estonia’s staunch support for Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity. This move, consistent with the G7 Joint Declaration, showcases international solidarity against Russian aggression and highlights the pivotal role of military aid in the current geopolitical landscape. It signifies a strong commitment to peace and stability in the region and urges other nations to follow suit in supporting Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.
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