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ABP Exclusive: Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal has called for a united global response to the ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine, while also expressing optimism about deepening bilateral relations with India. He underscored the importance of justice, accountability, and collaboration among democracies.

In an exclusive interview to ABP Network’s Megha Prasad, the Estonian Prime Minister emphasised shared democratic values and bilateral cooperation with India. “India is a growing global power with significant influence. We hope India can use that influence to help bring about a just peace in Ukraine,” he said.

He revealed that Estonia and India are already working together in areas like cybersecurity and international law. “Last year, three Estonian private companies signed agreements with Indian counterparts. We see opportunities in food processing, wood industries, and more,” Michal added.

Inviting more Indian engagement with Estonia, he said, “Estonia is a clean, welcoming country. It may not be the warmest place, but we would love to host more Indian visitors and partners.”

Estonian PM Kristen Michal On India-Pakistan Conflict, Russia-Ukraine War

When asked about Estonia’s stance on the India–Pakistan conflict, Michal maintained that all such disputes should be resolved through diplomacy. “Our position is that all such conflicts should be resolved peacefully. Leaders must keep a cool head and engage in diplomatic dialogue,” he concluded.

The Estonian leader highlighted the widespread desire across Europe for “a just and lasting peace” in Ukraine. “The war Russia is waging in Ukraine is the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II. For peace to be meaningful, Russia must be held accountable for the destruction it has caused, and its goals must change,” he said.

Kristen Michal On NATO, Estonia's Defence Spending Amid 'Acute Threat' From Russia 

When asked about U.S. President Donald Trump’s unpredictable stance on NATO and his past remarks perceived to favour Russian President Vladimir Putin, Michal reaffirmed faith in the transatlantic alliance. “NATO remains the strongest military alliance in the world. President Trump has publicly acknowledged NATO’s importance and affirmed his commitment to Article 5,” he said.

He noted Estonia’s high defence expenditure, adding, “Last year, Estonia was among the top three NATO countries in per capita defence spending—after Poland and ahead of the United States.”

Michal confirmed that Estonia is planning to raise its defence budget to 5% of GDP. He acknowledged that Russia continues to be the “most acute threat—not only to Estonia but to the wider democratic world.”

“Even if the war in Ukraine ended today, Russia has more troops under arms now than before the invasion. The obvious question is: what will these forces do next?” he cautioned.

Michal also pointed to the ongoing cyber threats from Russia. “Estonia has been under constant cyberattack from Russia since 2007, and those attacks have only intensified. Thankfully, we are well-prepared with advanced systems and strong private-sector collaboration in cybersecurity,” he stated.