Baltic States – CIS, Estonia, EU – Baltic States, Legislation, USA

Photo: president.ee

In a situation where Russia opposes democratic values and has abandoned the foundations of international law, harmonised, visible, consistent and forceful stance approach by both the European Union and NATO is becoming increasingly important, emphasised both parties in the meeting.

“Russia’s military activities in Ukraine, changing state borders, justifying occupation of the Crimea with a mock referendum, and constant statements of force against the state structures in Ukraine is a way for Russia to make it difficult to co-operate with Europe and the United States,” said President Ilves.

“This requires well-targeted and effective sanctions, as well as actions that would increase the presence of NATO close to the Eastern border of the alliance,” he added, emphasising that actions are needed, as words alone would not suffice in the current situation.

The Estonian President commended the United States for expressing clear support for the fundamental values of NATO and the fact that US leaders have reiterated the unambiguous validity of NATO Article 5 for all allies. Several allies have also provided additional contributions to the air-policing mission in the Baltic States.

Ilves said that it is important for countries that share European values to dedicate themselves to promoting democracy in Ukraine, requiring political, economic and diplomatic support.

“Naturally, the people of Ukraine have to make their own choices, but the would only be truly Ukrainian choices, if there would be no “green men” with Kalashnikov weapons present, and Kyiv would not be pressured from Moscow to change their national structures,” stated Ilves.