This is Borrell’s first visit to Estonia as the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Greeting him at the Tapa military base, Tsahkna said his support for Estonia in light of Russia’s hybrid actions had not gone unnoticed. “Since the start of Russia’s full-scale war in Ukraine in February 2022, we have taken unprecedented decisions in the European Union to support Ukraine and ensure the security and future of Europe,” Tsahkna said, thanking Borrell for his quick and decisive response to Russia’s aggression.
At the meeting, Tsahkna said it was important to continue with bold decisions in supporting Ukraine. “Ukraine is fighting for the freedom and future of us all,” he said. “I am expecting quick progress with both the European Peace Facility as well as using the profits earned from the frozen sovereign assets of Russia because the aggressor does not wait.”
“We met at the Tapa military base, less than two hours away from the external border of the EU and NATO – the external border with Russia that continues its increasingly aggressive hybrid actions against Western countries,” Tsahkna said. “One example of the continued subversive actions by Russia is the brazen and arbitrary removal of the buoys marking the border between Estonia and Russia.”
Tsahkna underlined that it was crucial to retain unity, clear messaging and determination in standing up to Russia because the future of all of Europe was at stake.
They also spoke about improving the defence capability of Europe, with increasing the productivity of Europe’s defence industry playing a key role.
They also exchanged views on the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union. “Hungary must be sent a clear political signal that their actions during their Presidency of the Council of the EU are unacceptable and if they continue, it will not be possible to work with the Presidency in the coming months,” Tsahkna said. “The procedure of Article 7 of the Treaty on European Union, that is, the suspension of Hungary’s voting rights is part of these discussions but no decisions have been taken on the issue.”
Photos of the meeting: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBAiMZ
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