Estonia Ready to Deploy Troops Ukraine, Sees No NATO Eastern Flank Weakening

Estonian President Alar Karis has emphasized the critical importance of maintaining U.S. troop presence in Eastern Europe amid concerns about a possible U.S. troop drawdown in the region, urging European countries to bolster their own military capacities. Estonia, part of the 'Coalition of the Willing,' is prepared to send troops to non-contact areas in Ukraine as part of a reassurance force following any ceasefire with Russia, while continuing to support Ukraine through participation in the U.S.-NATO PURL weapons initiative and direct military aid. Karis stressed that proximity to Russia is not the only threat due to modern missile technologies and highlighted ongoing discussions with NATO and U.S. military leaders to ensure continued U.S. military presence in Europe. While Lithuania and Latvia have shown willingness to join the reassurance force, Poland has declined, prioritizing border security at home. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has downplayed concerns about resource strain, noting NATO's discreet involvement to balance commitments. Overall, Estonia is actively working with allies to strengthen security guarantees for Ukraine without weakening NATO's eastern flank.