Estonian MP: Russia must not get the idea of ​​trying its hand at NATO

TALLINN – Estonian Reform Party MP Kristo Enn Vaga said on Tuesday during a discussion in the Riigikogu on the country's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035" that Estonia must do everything in its power to prevent Russia from getting the idea of ​​trying its hand at NATO.

"5 percent on defense spending is one of the highest figures in all of NATO and confirms Estonia's commitment to collective defense and the security of its people," Vaga said.

He added that although we cannot choose our neighbors, we must do everything in our power to ensure that the neighboring aggressor does not even develop the thought of trying its hand at NATO.

"Russia is a real and long-term threat to Europe and NATO. We should not hold out hope that this threat will disappear," he said.

Speaking about Estonia's latest investments in the defense sector, Vaga pointed out that the capabilities that the commander of the defense forces considers critical for performing military tasks are primarily being developed.

"In recent years, the 2nd Infantry Brigade has been mechanized, an artillery regiment has been created, and multi-layered air defense has been developed. Next year, IRIS-T medium-range air defense systems will be introduced and the creation of an air defense brigade will begin, as well as investments in drones, reconnaissance and fire control, infrastructure, and ammunition," Vaga said.

According to the MP, it is important to ensure that the methods of warfare and combat experiences evident in Russia's war against Ukraine also end up in the development of Estonia's defense capabilities.

"This is also the reason why an innovation and future capability command was established within the defense forces, with an emphasis on the development of robotics and the use of artificial intelligence. In this regard, developing the Estonian defense industry is key, so that we also have domestic production, which in turn would help the local economy grow," Vaga said.