Ukraine and Estonia have agreed to enhance their defense collaboration, particularly in the area of unmanned systems. This announcement was made by Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko following discussions with Estonian leaders on June 2.
During her visit to Tallinn, Svyrydenko met with Estonian President Alar Karis, Parliament Speaker Lauri Hussar, and Prime Minister Krišjānis Kariņš. The talks focused on bolstering defense ties and establishing a framework for ongoing exchanges of expertise in response to security threats.
Svyrydenko emphasized Estonia’s continued support for Ukraine’s energy sector, noting that the country’s contributions to the Energy Support Fund for Ukraine have surpassed €2.6 million. In return, Ukraine is prepared to share its experiences in energy decentralization and management under challenging conditions.
She described Estonia as a steadfast ally in Ukraine’s pursuit of European Union membership and expressed gratitude for the support in securing a loan from the EU. The discussions also included strategies for increasing sanctions pressure on Russia, particularly the development of the 21st sanctions package and efforts to counteract shadow fleets.
Attention was also given to the ‘Bring Kids Back UA’ initiative, aimed at repatriating Ukrainian children unlawfully taken to Russia. Svyrydenko acknowledged Estonia’s leadership in advocating for international accountability regarding Russia’s actions, highlighting that Estonia was the first to ratify the agreement for establishing a Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine. Concurrently, both nations are working on a compensation mechanism.
Ukraine and Estonia have deepened their defense cooperation, focusing on unmanned systems and energy support. The discussions also addressed sanctions against Russia and initiatives for repatriating Ukrainian children.