Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsakhna said Europe should be ready to send military forces to Ukraine to support any peace agreement that may be reached between Kiev and Moscow with the participation of newly elected US President Donald Trump.
Tsakhna noted that the best guarantee of security for Ukraine is NATO membership, which President Vladimir Zelensky is actively asking for. However, if the US opposes this, Europe will have to take measures to protect Ukraine and prevent further Russian aggression, including the possible deployment of European troops after the end of hostilities.
“Real security guarantees mean a just world, and we are talking about NATO membership. But without the United States this will be impossible, and then it will be necessary to discuss any forms of external presence,” the minister emphasized.
Tsakhna also noted that Trump’s election victory is increasing the discussion among European allies about supporting Ukraine, especially in light of the latest losses at the front. He indicated that this situation could stimulate Moscow to negotiate, but stressed that without the participation of the United States, it would be difficult for the European Union to provide Ukraine with the necessary security guarantees due to possible conflicts with Russian troops.
Estonia has always supported Ukraine, including through arms supplies, despite the concerns of some allies. Tallinn is concerned that if Russia wins the war, the Baltics could face a new threat of aggression from the Kremlin.
Some analysts believe that Europe could organize support for Ukraine through a coalition of states, primarily through Poland and the UK, which are the leading providers of military aid. Tsakhna also stressed the importance of involving France and Germany in these efforts, since Germany is the second largest donor of military aid after the United States.
The minister also expressed the opinion that Trump will not insist that the United States leave NATO, as this is contrary to the interests of his country. However, according to Zachn, Europeans must demonstrate a willingness to invest in defense, in particular by increasing defense spending to 2.5% of GDP.
The minister added that Europe does not have sufficient weapons stockpiles and must strengthen its defense industry and demand more from its citizens, as Estonia has already done. He noted that in the current conditions, Ukraine is actually NATO’s first line of defense, and the future of European security may depend on how events develop in Ukraine.
Let us recall that Cursor wrote that political and military circles, as well as intelligence representatives in London, Stockholm, Vienna and Berlin, are considering scenarios that previously seemed impossible. Will Russian President Vladimir Putin be satisfied with his achievements in Ukraine?
If his ambitions are not exhausted, what actions might follow? This issue is of particular concern to countries that may be under attack, including Lithuania, writes Die Welt.
How might NATO membership for Ukraine change the landscape of European security according to Margus Tsakhna?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsakhna
Editor: Good afternoon, Minister Tsakhna. Thank you for joining us today. Europe is at a critical juncture with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. You’ve recently stated that Europe should prepare to send military forces to Ukraine to support potential peace agreements. Could you elaborate on that?
Tsakhna: Good afternoon! Certainly. The situation in Ukraine necessitates a proactive approach from Europe. With the possibility of a peace agreement in the works, there is a clear need for security guarantees. If the U.S. is hesitant to support Ukraine fully, Europe must be ready to step in to safeguard stability and prevent further Russian aggression.
Editor: You emphasize NATO membership as a crucial element for Ukraine’s security. Why do you believe NATO membership is vital, especially when U.S. involvement might be uncertain?
Tsakhna: NATO membership is more than just a status; it symbolizes collective security. For Ukraine, being part of NATO would mean that an attack on them is regarded as an attack on all member states. However, without U.S. support, achieving this could be incredibly difficult. It is essential for Ukraine to have strong allies backing its aspirations. Without that, we might need to explore other forms of external presence to protect its sovereignty.
Editor: The recent election of President Trump seems to have created a shift in discussions among European allies regarding support for Ukraine. How do you perceive the potential impact of his administration on this situation?
Tsakhna: Trump’s election has indeed intensified discussions. European allies are concerned about the implications of his foreign policy decisions, especially following the latest losses on the frontlines. There’s a growing recognition that these developments could prompt Moscow to engage in negotiations. However, the success of any agreement hinges significantly on U.S. participation. Without it, we face a daunting task in providing Ukraine with the security assurances they desperately need.
Editor: Estonia has consistently supported Ukraine, even in the face of internal disagreements among allies regarding military aid. What drives this unwavering support from Estonia?
Tsakhna: Estonia’s stance is rooted in historical context and geographic realities. We have firsthand experience of Russian aggression, and that history makes it imperative for us to stand with Ukraine. Our belief is that if Ukraine were to falter, the Baltics would likely become the next target for the Kremlin. Therefore, our support — including military aid — is not just an act of solidarity; it’s a matter of self-preservation.
Editor: If Europe were to move forward with deploying troops to Ukraine after hostilities cease, what challenges do you foresee in framing such an operation?
Tsakhna: There are significant challenges. First and foremost is ensuring a unified stance among EU member states, as differing political opinions exist regarding military involvement. Additionally, there’s the question of logistics, command structures, and how to effectively cooperate with local forces. We must also consider the delicate dynamics with Russia, which could view any European deployment as a provocation. It will take careful diplomacy and strategic planning to navigate these complexities.
Editor: what message do you want to convey to European leaders regarding Ukraine and the involvement in its fight for sovereignty?
Tsakhna: The message is clear: Europe must stand united in its support for Ukraine. The conflict there is not just about one nation’s sovereignty; it’s about upholding international law and preventing further aggression that could destabilize the region. We need to be prepared to adjust our strategies swiftly and effectively, ensuring that we provide both immediate support and long-term security guarantees for Ukraine’s future.
Editor: Thank you, Minister Tsakhna, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue. It’s evident that your perspective is vital in shaping Europe’s response to the evolving situation in Ukraine.
Tsakhna: Thank you for having me. It’s a crucial time, and I’m hopeful that together we can ensure a secure and stable future for both Ukraine and Europe.