Kristen Michal: Ukraine's position stronger, only Kyiv can negotiate with Russia
In an interview, Estonian PM Kristen Michal says Ukraine now has a stronger hand and negotiations with Russia must proceed on Ukraine's terms.
NB8 meeting and Zelensky's visit to Tallinn
Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal (RE) gave an extensive interview to Postimees covering the recent NB8 summit with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The leaders discussed security, sanctions, and continued support for Ukraine. Michal stressed that NB8 is Ukraine's closest circle of friends and Estonia holds the chairmanship this year.
Drone deal: why Estonia didn't sign
Unlike Latvia and Lithuania, Estonia did not sign a specific drone deal with Ukraine. Michal explained that Estonia signed a joint declaration on defence cooperation, which is broader. The Ukrainian drone deal involves financial commitments and strategic long-term planning, and the government needed more time for negotiations. Estonia also focuses on producing its own drones for national defence.
Negotiations with Russia: only Ukraine decides
Commenting on Finnish President Alexander Stubb's proposal for talks with Russia, Michal said Stubb understands Russia well but emphasized that only Ukraine and Russia can negotiate. "If a regime sends 35,000 of its own soldiers to die every month, why would we think they care about diplomacy?" he asked. Michal reiterated that pressure on Russia must continue to force it to negotiate from a weaker position.
Support for Ukraine and EU enlargement
Estonia has committed 0.25% of GDP annually to support Ukraine. Michal backs swift EU enlargement, including opening all six clusters for Ukraine and Moldova. He noted that Ukraine's army is Europe's strongest and should eventually join both the EU and NATO.
