Estonian Prime Minister Michal calls for stronger support for Ukraine
Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal said during a visit to Kyiv that Ukraine must receive everything necessary for defense and countering Russian aggression. In the capital, he is taking part in the NB8 summit of leaders of the Nordic and Baltic countries and Ukraine, which he is co-chairing with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, ERR News reports.
Assistance for defense
According to Michal, Ukraine's priority needs are additional air defense systems, ammunition, and greater investment in Ukraine's defense industry. He also called for increasing pressure on the Russian Federation — the aggressor state — strengthening sanctions and closing loopholes it uses to circumvent restrictions.
The Estonian prime minister noted that his country is helping Ukraine prepare for winter, protect and restore critical energy infrastructure. According to him, this infrastructure remains under threat due to Russia's actions.
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Meetings in Kyiv
Michal's visit coincided with Ukraine's National Flag Day, which is celebrated annually on August 23. In Kyiv, he is also due to meet with Ukrainian Prime Minister Serhii Koretskyi to discuss bilateral relations and preparations for the Ukraine Recovery Conference, which is planned to be held in Tallinn in January next year.
This year, Estonia holds the chairmanship of the NB8 format, which includes Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The format provides for regular dialogue on security and regional issues. A joint press conference is expected after the summit, where the results of the meeting and new commitments may be presented.
Michal noted that this year marks 35 years since the restoration of Estonia's independence and Ukraine's declaration of independence. According to him, both countries won the right to determine their own future, and Ukraine is now defending this right on the battlefield and upholding the freedom and security of all Europe.
