France-Estonia: a strengthened defense agreement in the face of the Russian threat

AA / Istanbul / Serap Dogansoy

France and Estonia signed a declaration on Monday aimed at strengthening their cooperation in matters of defense and security, in a context marked by the war in Ukraine and what the two countries describe as a lasting Russian threat to European security.

The document was signed by the French Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans, Catherine Vautrin, and the Estonian Minister of Defense, Hanno Pevkur.

In a joint declaration, the two governments reaffirmed that NATO remained the basis of collective defense in Europe, while deeming it necessary to strengthen European military capabilities and cooperation between allies.

The agreement provides for deepening cooperation in the land, maritime, air, cyber and space domains, as well as in the areas of innovation, research and defense technologies, including artificial intelligence, drones, electronic warfare and precision strikes.

The two countries also announced the establishment of a regular strategic dialogue between ministers and chiefs of staff and their desire to work towards a mutual defense clause.

“Russia is a long-term threat to European security,” declared Hanno Pevkur, believing that this strengthened partnership illustrates the Allies’ desire to consolidate NATO’s eastern flank.

Since 2017, France has participated in the Alliance’s military system in Estonia, where French forces are permanently deployed. The armies of the two countries have also cooperated in several international operations, notably in Mali and the Central African Republic.​​​​​​​