Estonian PM to Polish counterpart: We must not fall into the trap of Russian proposals

TALLINN - In a telephone conversation, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki and Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas discussed how to counter Russia's increased military activity and ensure security in the region, with Kallas noting that we must not fall into the trap of Russia's proposals.

"We must not fall into the trap set by Russia, which aims to break up Europe's existing security arrangements and entice allies to make concessions. This is blackmail," Kallas said according to spokespeople.

"Russia's military threat to Ukraine is growing and the signs are that we must be ready for an expansion of Russian aggression in Ukraine. Convincing deterrence and support for Ukraine will help prevent its escalation," Kallas noted, stressing that one must be ready to react very quickly. 

"The European Union and the United States are working together to develop sanctions. We in the European Union must ensure their immediate implementation in the event of a deterioration of the situation," the Estonian premier said.

In addition, the importance of strengthening military deterrence on NATO's eastern flank was talked about, and both prime ministers stressed the need to implement the decisions already made at an accelerated pace. NATO defense ministers are about to meet on this subject in the near future. 

Kallas wished success to Poland in its presidency of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and expressed hope that the discussions in the OSCE will help defuse the tensions caused by Russia. 

Kallas and Morawiecki voiced appreciation of the close mutual security cooperation between the countries.

"Today, the next Estonian unit will travel to Poland to help the country repel the ongoing hybrid attack by Belarus. Cooperation between Estonians and Poles is excellent," Kallas said. She described Poland's role in NATO air policing and participation in exercises in the Baltic states as invaluable and helping to strengthen security in the region.