Foreign Minister Tsahkna at the EU General Affairs Council: I expect decisions on increasing pressure on Russia and enhancing Europe's defence readiness ahead of the European Council
Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs
16.09.2025 | 18:57
Today, 16 September, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna took part in the meeting of the European Union's General Affairs Council in Brussels, which focused on preparations for the European Council on 23-24 October.
Ahead of the leaders' meeting, discussions centred on applying further pressure on Russia, continued support for Ukraine, and strengthening Europe's security.
"In recent weeks it has once again become clear that Russia seeks neither a ceasefire nor lasting peace. We have seen attacks against civilians standing in pension queues in broad daylight, as well as Russia's drone terror over both Poland and Romania - all of which prove that Russia continues its course of aggression," Foreign Minister Tsahkna said.
"This means only one thing - pressure on Russia must be increased, as only in this way can Russia be forced to the negotiating table. The European Union must urgently adopt a robust 19th package of sanctions and make a decision about using Russia's frozen assets," Tsahkna stated.
The minister added that Ukraine must continue to receive both military and political support, including the launch of EU accession negotiations with both Moldova and Ukraine at the earliest opportunity.
According to Tsahkna, Russia remains the most serious and long-term threat to the whole of Europe, which makes it essential to swiftly implement initiatives aimed at strengthening Europe's defence readiness, including the ReArm Europe initiative.
The General Affairs Council also discussed legislative planning, the annual horizontal rule of law dialogue, and overall trends regarding the rule of law in selected candidate countries - Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia.
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