Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal spoke to the president-elect of the United States, Donald Trump, by phone on Tuesday to discuss the continued strong bilateral co-operation between the two countries, support for Ukraine, and further development of NATO’s defence capabilities.
At the beginning of the call, Michal congratulated Trump on the strong mandate which he received in elections earlier this month. He confirmed that Estonia would remain an ally that is committed to Transatlantic relations – one upon which the United States can rely.
Michal also emphasised the importance of continued support for Ukraine in achieving a lasting and just peace.
“Putin has not changed his objectives during the war,” the premier said. “He still wants to conquer all of Ukraine and fundamentally alter Europe’s security architecture. The only path toward lasting peace is to remain united and to continue support for Ukraine until its victory.”
Mr Michal reaffirmed Estonia’s support for strengthening NATO’s defence capabilities and for boosting defence investments in Europe.
“In light of the growing threat from Russia, NATO’s 2% defence spending target is no longer sufficient,” the Estonian leader declared. “At next year’s NATO summit at the Hague and no later than that a new common defence spending target must be agreed.”
Estonia is preparing to spend the equivalent of 3.4% of GDP on national defence this year.
Source: BNS
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