Today, Estonian Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur hosted French Minister of Defence Sébastien Lecornu in Tallinn. Together, they led a video meeting of the European Quint format and the Nordic-Baltic defence ministers, focusing on further support for Ukraine and the future of European security.
Minister Lecornu also took part in Estonia’s Independence Day military parade at Freedom Square, where French Armed Forces units and military equipment were also present.
During the bilateral meeting, the ministers discussed Estonian-French defence cooperation, the security situation in Europe and Ukraine, and the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague.
"France is one of Estonia's key NATO Allies, actively contributing to NATO’s presence in Estonia while also deepening our defence procurement cooperation. Given the current security situation, it is reassuring to see France’s ironclad commitment and potentially increasing presence in Estonia," said Minister Pevkur.
Following their meeting, the ministers participated in a video meeting on military aid to Ukraine and regional security, attended by defence ministers from Ukraine, the Nordic-Baltic (NB8) countries, Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Poland, and the Netherlands, as well as representatives from NATO and the European Union.
"As we celebrate Estonia’s 107th anniversary of statehood today, we also stand with the people of Ukraine, who continue their struggle for freedom. Instead of discussing peace initiatives, Europe must provide Ukraine with significantly stronger support—here and now. Estonia has pledged military aid equivalent to 0.25% of its GDP, and we are increasing our support by an additional quarter, delivering 10,000 artillery shells this year. Together with the Baltic and Nordic countries, we have committed to equipping and training a Ukrainian brigade. In addition, we are directing €100 million worth of military aid to Ukraine from Estonia’s defence industry. These decisions are possible when there is clear determination. That is why, together with Minister Lecornu, we convened an urgent meeting with our European colleagues to ensure sustained military support for Ukraine despite the current volatile situation," said Pevkur.
France has made a significant contribution to Estonia’s defence, having participated in the UK-led NATO Battlegroup in Estonia since 2017. Since 2022, France has maintained a permanent company-sized unit in Estonia, working closely with the Estonian Defence League. Since 2023, the French Armed Forces have been providing training for the Estonian Defence League, including participation in major territorial defence exercises in 2023 and 2024.
France is also Estonia’s largest partner in defence procurements. At the end of January, the Estonian Defence Forces received the first Caesar MK1 155mm self-propelled howitzers, which will enhance the Estonian Division’s capabilities.
Photos from the ministerial meeting
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