Estonian president: Europe should prepare for renewed dialogue with Russia

Estonian President Alar Karis has said that Europe should already be preparing for the possibility of renewed dialogue with Russia following the end of the war in Ukraine.

In an interview with Helsingin Sanomat, Karis stressed that European countries need to act in a coordinated manner and consider in advance how they would respond to the end of the conflict.

“Are we ready if the war ends today or tomorrow? How should we react? What should we do? And what should Russia do?” he said, underlining that such scenarios require preparation now.

He noted that the war could end in the near future or continue for several years, but in either case, Europe must be ready for a post-conflict phase.

At the same time, the president reiterated that Estonia has consistently warned about the risks of escalation and what he described as Russia’s “aggressive policy”, while also emphasising the importance of thinking ahead to the period after the war.

Karis also said that claims suggesting Estonia could be the next target are often exaggerated and fuelled by fear, which he warned could have a negative impact on the country’s investment climate.

He pointed out that Estonia remains under NATO protection and has significantly increased defence spending, exceeding 5% of GDP.

Looking ahead, he said relations with Russia would eventually need to be reassessed after the war ends, but only once the underlying causes of the conflict have been addressed and Moscow’s behaviour has changed.

Karis also backed the idea of appointing a special EU envoy for Russia, arguing this could help lay the groundwork for post-war dialogue in advance and prevent decisions being made “behind the backs” of smaller member states.