Estonian Minister of Defence Kalle Laanet, Latvian Minister of Defence Artis Pabriks and Lithuanian Minister of Defence Arvydas Anušauskas today issued a press statement in support of Ukraine, noting that they have received the necessary approvals from the United States to send weapons and continue to work closely to deliver them to Ukraine expeditiously.
"Today Ukraine is at the forefront of separating Europe from the military conflict with Russia. Let´s face it - the war in Ukraine is ongoing and it is important to support Ukraine in every way we can so that they can resist the aggressor," Minister of Defence of Estonia, Kalle Laanet said and added that he is pleased that in consultation with the Allies, Estonia has decided to donate weapon systems to Ukraine.
"Today we have all the necessary approvals from US to send the weapons. With this we show that we support Ukraine not only with words, but also with deeds. The Allies are united, but there is always a need for those who show initiative, Estonia is definitely one of those countries," Laanet added.
According to the statement Estonia will provide Javelin anti-armour missiles, while Latvia and Lithuania will provide Stinger anti-aircraft missiles and adjacent equipment to bolster Ukraine’s defensive military capabilities. The Baltic countries will continue to co-operate to deliver weapons to Ukraine expeditiously. Defence ministers also expressed hope that there will never be a need for Ukraine to actually use these weapon systems and that Russia will change its aggressive posture.
FULL TEXT OF THE STATEMENT
Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania stand united in our commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in face of continued Russian aggression. The Baltic States will continue supporting Ukraine not only in diplomatic and political ways, but also in strengthening Ukraine's ability to defend itself.
In light of Russia’s increase in military pressure in and around Ukraine, the Baltic States have decided to answer Ukrainian needs and to provide additional defence related assistance. This aid will further enhance Ukraine’s capability to defend its territory and population in case of a possible Russian aggression.
Estonia will provide Javelin anti-armour missiles, while Latvia and Lithuania will provide Stinger anti-aircraft missiles and adjacent equipment to bolster Ukraine’s defensive military capabilities. This defence related assistance follows the approval of the United States government on the third party transfer to provide U.S.-made equipment to Ukraine.
Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania and their Allies are working together expeditiously to hand over the security assistance to Ukraine.
We sincerely hope that Ukraine will face no need to use this equipment and call on Russian Federation to seize its aggressive and irresponsible behaviour.
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