Estonia has decided to ask leaders of the northern European NATO countries, who are led by the UK, to spend at least 2.5% of their money (GDP) on defense. This is because of worries about Russia. Right now, only 23 out of the 32 NATO countries plan to spend the NATO goal of 2% of their GDP on defense.
Michal, a leader in Estonia, told Reuters recently, “Everyone in NATO and the EU feels that we need to spend more on defense because of what’s happening around the world and with Russia.” He believes that Europe, being the richest area in the world, should invest more in defense and security.
This week, Michal is hosting leaders of a group called the Joint Expeditionary Force in Tallinn. They will discuss Russia’s “shadow fleet” of oil tankers, which could cause serious environmental problems. Since the war in Ukraine began nearly three years ago, Estonia has doubled its defense budget and plans to reach 3.2% of GDP in 2024.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer mentioned in July that he wants to raise UK defense spending to 2.5% of GDP but only when the UK can afford it after reviewing its defense strategy.
Incoming U.S. President Donald Trump has spoken about ending the war in Ukraine quickly, but he hasn’t shared his plans. Michal stressed the need for lasting peace and suggested using 200 to 300 billion euros from Russia’s frozen assets worldwide to help rebuild Ukraine. He also wants to tax Russian goods to collect an additional 300 billion euros, which he believes would prevent Russia from continuing attacks and strengthen Ukraine’s military.
“Ukraine is part of Europe and should be in NATO,” Michal added.
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