Estonia: Russia likely to threaten Europe in 3-5 years: PM Kallas

Europe has three to five years to prepare for Russia to pose a serious threat to NATO’s eastern flank, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas estimated, ERR reports. Speaking in an interview with The Times, Kallas said that the time frame depended on NATO unity and continued support for Ukraine. She conceded that there were signs of “war fatigue” in the West but warned that weakness only provoked Russia. Kallas urged NATO to adopt a strategy of containment towards Russia and for member states to ensure defence spending of at least 2.5% of GDP. Meanwhile, MP Marko Mihkelson and MEP Urmas Paet warned against portraying the Baltic States as potential victims of future Russian aggression. Both stressed the need to strengthen deterrence.