Washington, D.C. (July 23, 2024) – U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III welcomed Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur to the Pentagon today for high-level discussions, building on the recent NATO summit in Washington. The meeting focused on strengthening NATO’s deterrence and defense posture, joint military exercises, U.S. troop presence in the Baltic states, and the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
Secretary Austin highlighted the importance of collective defense and commended Estonia’s commitment to NATO, particularly its substantial defense investments. “Putin’s war of choice continues to threaten our shared security,” Austin stated, emphasizing the united front of the U.S., Estonia, and other allies in supporting a free and sovereign Ukraine. He praised Estonia’s contributions to Ukraine’s security and noted the country’s military modernization efforts.
Austin acknowledged Estonia’s significant defense spending, exceeding 3% of its GDP, as a demonstration of its dedication to transatlantic security. He also appreciated Estonia’s support for the approximately 600 U.S. troops stationed there on a rotational basis, underscoring the importance of this presence in deterring Russian aggression.
Minister Pevkur echoed the need for a strong and persistent U.S. military presence in Estonia and the Baltic region. He expressed gratitude to the U.S. servicemen and women who have been stationed in Estonia and highlighted the importance of their role in regional security. Pevkur also called for NATO allies to increase their defense spending targets, suggesting a goal of 2.5% to 3% of GDP, reflecting the evolving security environment.
Estonia plans to further increase its defense budget, potentially exceeding 4% of GDP by 2026, with significant investments in ammunition, new capabilities, and military readiness. Pevkur emphasized the necessity for NATO allies to scale up military capabilities, particularly in air defense and fires, and to expand defense industrial capacity.
In recognition of Secretary Austin’s leadership in enhancing security cooperation with Estonia and providing capabilities to Ukraine, Minister Pevkur announced that Estonian President Alar Karis had decided to award Austin the Second Class of the Order of the Cross of Terra Mariana. The award, presented to Austin following their discussions, honors his efforts in strengthening the U.S.-Estonia defense partnership and supporting NATO’s mission.
This meeting underscores the strong and growing defense relationship between the United States and Estonia, as both nations continue to collaborate closely within the NATO framework to address shared security challenges and support Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression.–News Desk