The downing of Ukrainian drones in the Baltic region is a consequence of Russia's war, says Estonia's defense minister
The downing of Ukrainian drones over Estonian and Latvian territory is a consequence of the full-scale war launched by Russia, not Ukraine’s fault.
This was stated by Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur during a joint press conference in Warsaw with Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Vladislav Kosiniak-Kamysz.
Pevkur reported that on Tuesday night, a Ukrainian drone crashed into a power plant chimney in Auvere after veering off course during an attack on targets in Russia, specifically in Primorsk, Leningrad Oblast. Another drone crashed on Latvian territory.
“Electricity supply was temporarily interrupted (in Estonia – ed.). However, let us remember: this is not Ukraine’s fault. All of this is a consequence of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and Ukraine is merely defending its freedom,” Pevkur emphasized.
The minister also drew attention to the impact of the situation in the Middle East on global oil markets. According to him, rising oil prices effectively mean increased funding for Russia’s war machine.
“Ukraine is doing a great deal to limit Russia’s capabilities in this regard, and we must be aware of this. Of course, such side effects sometimes arise. But this does not mean that we should in any way consider limiting support for Ukraine, because Ukraine is also fighting for our freedom,” he emphasized.
Pevkur stressed the importance of maintaining unity among NATO allies, as Russia seeks to weaken it.
“Therefore, if anyone tries to divide us, to split NATO allies, we must counter this and not allow anyone to do so. We must remain united,” the minister stated.
Earlier, it was reported that in Estonia, a drone crashed into power plant infrastructure after veering off course, likely due to interference in Russian airspace. In Latvia, a drone crashed in the Krāslava region while carrying out a combat mission.
Earlier, Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs confirmed that the drone, which flew in from Russian territory and crashed in Latvia, belonged to Ukraine.
A drone equipped with explosives entered Latvian airspace. It was flying at a low altitude.
