Baltic states, Poland engaging in cooperation to ensure regional security

TALLINN - The foreign affairs ministers of the Baltic states and Poland signed a joint declaration in Riga on Tuesday establishing the foundation for a cooperation platform of the four states for strengthening security in the region.

"Together we are stronger. As member states of the EU and NATO we're seeing that we can further strengthen our cooperation in this pivotal time in order to boost collective deterrence and security in the region, foster economic growth and ensure the coping of our people," Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs Urmas Reinsalu said. 

The foreign ministers reaffirmed at the meeting strong political, military and economic support and the provision of humanitarian aid to Ukraine until the war is won. 

"February and March will be critical months for Ukraine and we must do everything in our power to help Ukraine prevail in the battle field. At the same time, we need to continue raising the price of the aggression for Russia with the next strong EU package of sanctions, by lowering the price cap on oil and with solutions for using frozen Russian assets for the benefit of Ukraine," Reinsalu said. 

The minister added that it is important to ensure legal accountability already now for the crimes committed in Ukraine, including the crime of aggression committed by the Russian leadership.

"An international special tribunal needs to be created to hold the culprits accountable," he said. 

The foreign ministers also discussed at the meeting on Tuesday cooperation in supporting Ukraine on its path to the European Union and NATO.

"Ukraine is not just fighting for its state and people in Russia's war but for the security of all of Europe and the values that are important for us. Estonia is ready to assist Ukraine with its experience and knowledge in every way possible," Reinsalu said.