Estonia may commit a fixed percentage of its GDP to Ukraine each year
Photo: Estonian Parliament (Erik Peinar)
The Estonian Parliament has proposed enshrining annual military and financial support for Ukraine. The corresponding draft declaration also contains a number of other proposals to strengthen aid to Kyiv and increase pressure on Russia, according to ERR.
67 members of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) submitted a draft declaration titled "For Ukraine's Victory and Ensuring Europe's Security" for consideration. The document was presented to parliament on behalf of the MPs by Marko Mihkelson, Chairman of the Riigikogu Foreign Affairs Committee.
The draft still needs to be discussed and put to a vote. A meeting of the relevant committee is scheduled for September 17.
What aid to Ukraine is proposed to be enshrined
A separate point in the document is the proposal to allocate at least 0.25% of Estonia's gross domestic product (GDP) to Ukraine annually. This refers to multi-year and predictable military and financial support.
The draft also calls on allies to prioritize the supply of air defense systems and missiles to Ukraine, ensure continuous deliveries of military equipment, and prepare critical stockpiles for the upcoming winter.
Furthermore, the MPs propose developing arms production, transferring relevant technologies to Ukraine, and expanding cooperation in the defense industry sector.
The Estonian Parliament also proposes strengthening support for Ukrainian intelligence, surveillance, and early warning systems, including through the exchange of satellite imagery. Separately, it mentions accelerating investments in drone production and counter-drone measures.
Riigikogu wants to increase pressure on Russia
The economic part of the draft includes a call to increase pressure on Russia, restrict its access to technologies, and reduce revenues from energy exports.
The MPs also advocate for more effective application of sanctions and holding those who violate them accountable.
The document separately condemns the holding of elections to the Russian State Duma on September 20 in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. The Riigikogu proposes not recognizing the results of these elections or the State Duma formed as a result as a legitimate representative body.
Estonia supports Ukraine's accession to the EU and NATO
The draft declaration also confirms support for Ukraine's accession to the European Union and NATO.
At the same time, the authors of the document emphasize the importance of continuing reforms in Ukraine, strengthening democratic institutions, fighting corruption, and respecting the rights of the opposition and political pluralism.
Another point is support for the creation of a special international tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine and mechanisms for compensation for damages caused by Russian aggression.
Estonia has already provided for aid to Ukraine at the level of 0.25% of GDP in its 2026 budget. €110.7 million has been allocated for military support this year, with the majority of funds planned to be directed toward orders for the Estonian defense industry.
Context of the news
Previously, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna stated that the threat to NATO would persist as long as Russia continues its aggression against Ukraine. According to him, partners must continue comprehensive aid to Kyiv and increase pressure on Moscow.
Estonia also wants to join France's nuclear initiative. The initiative involves strengthening nuclear deterrence and expanding relevant cooperation with European partners.
