After the recent NATO summit in Washington, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III met with Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur at the Pentagon. They talked about the strong defense partnership between the U.S. and Estonia. They focused on making NATO stronger, doing more joint military exercises, and dealing with Russian aggression in Ukraine.
United Front Against Russian Aggression
During the talks, Secretary Austin talked about the U.S. strong support for Ukraine being free and independent. He said it’s important that Estonia and other NATO allies help with this goal. Austin mentioned that Putin’s actions still affect everyone’s security. The U.S. and Estonia, along with their allies, are committed to a free Ukraine. Austin praised Estonia for its help with Ukraine’s security. He noted that Estonia has given a lot of support and has been very steady in its support for Ukraine.
Investing in Defense: Pevkur’s Commitment
A key point of the meeting was Estonia’s strong focus on modernizing its military and spending more on defense. Austin praised Estonia for deciding to spend about 3% of its GDP on national defense. This shows Estonia’s commitment to security in the region.
Minister Pevkur shared more details. He said Estonia plans to increase defense spending even more. By 2026, it could go beyond 4%, maybe reaching 4.4% or 4.5%, depending on the economy. He said they will make big investments, with 40% of the money going to ammunition, firing, and new capabilities. Estonia is doing its part to keep the alliance safe.
U.S. Troop Presence in Estonia
The U.S. has about 600 troops in Estonia, rotating regularly. Austin said this is very important for the area’s security. He said the U.S. is committed to keeping troops in the Baltics and that having forces in Estonia shows their commitment to protecting Estonia.
Austin thanked Estonia for welcoming and supporting U.S. troops. He said Estonia’s training environment helps improve how well troops work together. Austin added that he’s happy U.S. troops have such good training in Estonia. He also mentioned that civil-military teams are working together to strengthen ties between people.
Pevkur on Enhancing NATO’s Defense Capabilities
Minister Pevkur highlighted the evolving security environment. Thus calling for increased defense spending among NATO allies. He stated that according to the current security environment, a 2% defense spending target for NATO allies will no longer be enough. Pevkur proposed that NATO allies should aim for higher spending targets, such as 2.5% or 3%. As a concrete deliverable for NATO’s 2025 summit in The Hague.
Pevkur stressed the need to boost military supplies, like air defense and weapons, and grow defense industries. He highlighted Estonia’s active role, with strong financial support and smart planning, to keep the alliance safe and secure.
Pevkur and Austin’s Recognition of Future Cooperation
Pevekur thanked Austin for helping Ukraine and supporting security cooperation with Estonia. He announced that Estonian President Alar Karis will give Austin the Second Class of the Order of the Cross of Terra Mariana, a big national honor.
The meeting between Minister Pevkur and Secretary Austin showcases the strong defense ties between the United States and Estonia. Their discussions reflect a shared commitment to enhancing NATO’s deterrence capabilities. By countering Russian aggression, and ensuring the collective security of the transatlantic alliance. As both nations continue to invest in defense and strengthen their military cooperation. The alliance stands resilient in the face of emerging global threats.