Estonian FM urges Europe to increase pressure on Russia as Ukraine strikes deepen

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has urged European allies to demonstrate 'strategic patience' and intensify pressure on Russia as Ukraine continues to deliver increasingly damaging strikes deep inside Russian territory. In an interview with Bloomberg, Tsahkna said he could not predict when the war would end, but given the scale of Russian human losses, a critical moment is 'approaching'.

'Now is the time to show this strategic patience, increase pressure on Russia, and be ready for any reactions from its side. This could be a starting point for ending the war,' the Estonian minister stressed.

Tsahkna observed greater unity in Europe than he had expected, despite Russia's attempts to sow discord and diminish Europe's role at the negotiating table as a mediator rather than an ally of Ukraine. 'Europe and Ukraine are on the same side. More pressure, more support for Ukraine from Europe – and perhaps then the moment will come when Putin is ready for negotiations, but so far it is not,' he added.

Additional pressure is expected from the upcoming European Union sanctions package against Russia, aimed at further curbing Russia's oil and gas revenues and its so-called 'shadow fleet'. 'Sanctions are working, but we have not yet achieved the goal. It is very important that the United States joins this process, but Europe must take greater initiative. In fact, we are doing that,' Tsahkna said.

Earlier, Estonia's Ministry of Defence stated that Ukraine's ability to strike at long range has put Russia's leadership in a difficult position, as air defense assets are insufficient to protect all facilities.

Media also reported that US President Donald Trump, in a private conversation, advised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to act 'more boldly' toward Russia. According to the Financial Times, Trump told Zelensky he was impressed by Kyiv's recent military successes.