WASHINGTON (CHATNEWSTV) — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to Estonia’s security and urged the European Union to bolster defense spending in separate calls with Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna and EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, according to a press statement released by the State Department.
In his conversation with Tsahkna, Rubio emphasized the “enduring commitment” between the U.S. and Estonia, a key NATO ally on Russia’s doorstep. The two officials discussed strengthening defense cooperation, expanding economic ties, and reinforcing people-to-people connections, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said.
During his call with Kallas, Rubio pushed for greater European defense investments in the wake of continued threats from Russia and China. He also welcomed the EU’s recent decision to extend sanctions against Moscow for its ongoing war in Ukraine.
“The Secretary underscored the need to strengthen transatlantic security,” Bruce said in a statement, adding that Rubio and Kallas explored “ways to deepen U.S.-EU cooperation on common priorities.”
Rubio’s calls come as Washington presses its European allies to take on a greater share of security responsibilities amid shifting geopolitical challenges.
Editor: Gabriel Ani