Estonian officials slam Zelenskyy over remarks on potential Russian attack
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Getty Images)
In Estonia, some politicians sharply reacted to remarks by Volodymyr Zelenskyy, saying they echo Russian narratives and could complicate allied dialogue, according to ERR.
Zelenskyy’s remarks on Russia and mobilization
On Sunday, Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggested that internet restrictions in Russia may be aimed not at suppressing criticism of the government, but at preventing internal unrest ahead of a possible mobilization.
In his view, such measures could be linked to preparations for large-scale military scenarios against Ukraine or the Baltic states. The Ukrainian President also questioned how NATO would respond in the event of a hypothetical strike on the region.
"I think that perhaps not all countries would want to support (the Baltic states - ed.), but in my view, NATO has no choice — otherwise NATO would no longer exist. They must act and respond to what Putin could potentially do," Zelenskyy said.
Reaction in Estonia
Chairman of the Estonian parliament’s foreign affairs committee Marko Mihkelson said such statements repeat dangerous narratives and could play into Russia’s hands.
"He is effectively wagging a finger at Europe, suggesting that if we end up in a weaker position or lose, then you — especially the Baltic states — will be next," Mihkelson said.
According to him, such wording undermines trust in the concept of collective defense.
Political assessment
EKRE leader Martin Helme said such rhetoric only increases pressure and fear in the region.
"Constantly pushing people into stress and fear no longer helps make everyone act more decisively to prevent military threats or improve planning — it has turned into rhetorical attacks," Helme said.
According to several sources, Russia may be forming an informational and political basis for potential hybrid actions against Estonia, using the narrative of a so-called Narva People's Republic for propaganda purposes.
At the same time, Estonia’s Ministry of Defense sees discussions about a possible threat to Narva as a deliberate provocation by Moscow, viewing them as a simple and low-cost way to increase tensions and division within society.
