Estonia shifts military aid strategy to support Ukraine Prioritizing domestic production

Estonia is set to restructure its military aid to Ukraine, placing a greater emphasis on products sourced from Estonian companies.

In 2023, Estonia provided approximately €100 million in military assistance to Ukraine, representing 0.25 per cent of its GDP. This initiative was announced by Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur, Caliber.Az reports per Estonian media.

Looking ahead, Estonia is committed to maintaining its support for Ukraine, but will now focus on locally manufactured goods. Minister Pevkur indicated that discussions have already commenced with Ukrainian officials to identify their specific needs and priorities, ensuring that Estonian products align effectively with Ukrainian requirements.

The Estonian defence industry boasts the capacity to produce a diverse array of military goods valued at over €100 million annually. These offerings include drones, demining and surveillance systems, military boats, and anti-drone technology. This strategic shift not only aims to bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities but also to strengthen Estonia’s domestic industry in the process.

By Vafa Guliyeva