Brussels, 27 June 2024 — Estonia and Ukraine have signed a comprehensive agreement on security cooperation and long-term support, marking a major step in their bilateral relationship.
The agreement, signed by Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, includes extensive commitments in defense, political, and humanitarian aid, solidifying their alliance against Russian aggression.
According to a statement released by the Estonian Prime Minister’s office, the agreement condemns Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, highlighting severe violations of international law and the threat to European security. It reaffirms unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, calls for Russia to withdraw its forces, and stresses the importance of bringing those responsible for war crimes to justice.
At the signing ceremony, Prime Minister Kallas emphasized Estonia’s steadfast alliance with Ukraine in its struggle against aggression.
“This agreement will further strengthen the partnership between Estonia and Ukraine. With it, we reaffirm Estonia’s commitment to providing long-term political, military, and economic support to Ukraine and engaging in cooperation in many areas,” stated Kallas.
Kallas highlighted the agreement’s objectives and measures in contributing to Ukraine’s victory.
“The more countries that conclude bilateral agreements like this with Ukraine, the stronger the message we send to Russia – the support of Ukraine’s partners is long-term and together, we will help Ukraine to win. I am pleased that the security agreement between the European Union and Ukraine will also be signed today,” she added.
Before the signing, Prime Minister Kallas and President Zelenskyy discussed the current situation on the front lines and the upcoming NATO summit in Washington. Kallas expressed Estonia’s dedication to supporting Ukraine’s aspirations, sharing Estonia’s experiences with EU integration, and aiding Ukraine’s journey towards NATO membership.
“As a result of the persistent work of the people of Ukraine, their country’s accession negotiations with the European Union started this week. Estonia’s aim is to support Ukraine in their ambitions as much as possible by sharing our practical experiences of the EU. Estonia will also continue to support Ukraine on its journey to join NATO. Active work has begun to reach the outcomes of the NATO Washington Summit,” said Kallas.
Long-term Military Support
Estonia has pledged continued military aid to Ukraine, committing over EUR 100 million in 2024 alone, adding to the EUR 500 million already provided since the start of the conflict. The aid includes advanced weaponry, ammunition, and medical equipment. Estonia has also been instrumental in training over 1,500 Ukrainian servicemen in various military disciplines. “Our focus will remain on Ukraine’s most critical battlefield needs to help them reclaim their territory,” said Prime Minister Kallas.
Strategic Dialogue and Lessons Learned
A key aspect of the agreement is the establishment of a regular Strategic Dialogue to discuss security issues, increase bilateral cooperation, and exchange critical battlefield experiences. President Zelenskyy noted, “Ukraine’s unique expertise in modern warfare will significantly contribute to the defense strategies of our allies.”
Economic and Humanitarian Aid
The agreement extends beyond military support. Estonia will allocate EUR 56 million for development cooperation and humanitarian aid from 2024 to 2027, focusing on the reconstruction of Zhytomyr Oblast. “Estonia’s commitment to rebuilding Ukraine is unwavering. We will support Ukraine’s recovery in digital transition, education, construction, and healthcare,” stated Kallas.
Cybersecurity and Countering Disinformation
Recognizing the importance of cybersecurity, Estonia and Ukraine will enhance cooperation to counter cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns. The Tallinn Mechanism, established in 2023, will coordinate these efforts. “Ukraine’s resilience in cyber warfare is commendable, and we will bolster this strength through our combined efforts,” added Kallas.
Political Support and Accountability
The agreement underscores the importance of holding Russia accountable for its actions. Estonia and Ukraine will work towards establishing an international tribunal for the crime of aggression and seek reparations for damages caused by Russian aggression. “Justice for the victims of this war is paramount, and we will pursue all avenues to ensure accountability,” Zelenskyy emphasized.
Path to EU and NATO
Estonia strongly supports Ukraine’s aspirations to join the EU and NATO, pledging to aid in the necessary reforms and integration processes. “Ukraine’s future lies within the European and Euro-Atlantic family, and Estonia is committed to supporting this journey,” Kallas affirmed.
The agreement is a political declaration outlining objectives and measures to aid Ukraine’s victory. It focuses on defense and security cooperation, while also addressing broader issues such as Ukraine’s EU and NATO integration, sanctions against Russia, compensation for war damages, development cooperation, and civil defense collaboration. Estonia will not assume new financial obligations under this agreement, which builds on previous government decisions to support Ukraine comprehensively and is valid for ten years.
This bilateral agreement is part of a series of international efforts following the G7 Joint Declaration of 12 July 2023, aimed at providing Ukraine with sustained political, military, financial, and economic aid while holding Russian leadership accountable for its actions. Estonia joined this declaration on 17 August last year, along with Latvia and Lithuania. To date, 32 countries and the European Union have joined.
Negotiations for the agreement were led by Kyllike Sillaste-Elling, Undersecretary for Political Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia, and Ihor Žovkva, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine. The Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Interior of Estonia were also involved in developing the agreement’s positions. Ukraine has signed similar bilateral agreements with nearly 20 other countries.
