Pevkur to The Times: Estonia keeps NATO's eastern door closed against Russia

Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur gave an interview to the British newspaper The Times in which he stressed that Estonia defends NATO's eastern flank by keeping Russia out and shields the alliance. Pevkur called on all member states to increase defence spending and strengthen deterrence capabilities.

Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur explained in an interview with the British newspaper The Times that Estonia's role on NATO's eastern flank is directly linked to the UK's security. According to the minister, Estonia keeps Russia out of NATO's borders and thus helps protect all alliance members, including Britain.

Pevkur stressed that Russian aggression no longer poses a threat only to NATO's eastern flank, but has become a broader security challenge for the entire alliance. Therefore, in his view, it is essential that all NATO members increase their defence spending and invest in strengthening deterrence capabilities.

In recent years, Estonia has consistently exceeded NATO's recommended two per cent of GDP spending on defence, and the minister uses international platforms to encourage other member states to do the same. The Times is one of the most influential British quality newspapers, so such a public appeal gives Estonia's message considerable reach.