Prime Minister Michal: Clear military advice helps in making political decisions

The head of government noted that NATO members agreed at the Hague summit to increases in defence spending to at least 5% of GDP by 2035. "In Ankara, each and every ally needs to show that agreement will be honoured," he remarked. "Estonia is setting an example in that regard, with our defence spending this year already at 5.4% of GDP."

Prime Minister Michal says that leaders need military advice from NATO that takes threats into account, since this contributes to the making of political decisions. "We need to act faster if we are to reinforce European security," he urged. "To do that, all allies need to increase their defence spending and close the gaps in their military capabilities."

Continued support for Ukraine was also discussed at the meeting, with the head of government emphasising the direct link between the bolstering of Ukraine's defence capabilities and the security of Europe and NATO as a whole. He described the assistance provided to Ukraine, backed by security guarantees, as a precondition for a just and lasting peace.

"By helping the Ukrainians fight for their freedom, we are also shoring up Estonia's security," he said. "But in addition to our unwavering support for Ukraine, we and our allies must step up the pressure on Russia so that the aggressor runs out of the oxygen it needs to continue its war."

During the meeting, Estonia and NATO confirmed that they continue to work closely together with the aim of strengthening the Alliance's deterrence and defence posture and ensuring consistent and effective support for Ukraine.

Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone met with Prime Minister Michal as part of a three-day visit to Estonia. The Military Committee is NATO's highest military authority, comprising the Chiefs of Defence of all member countries. Its role is to provide the North Atlantic Council with both consensus-based advice on military strategies and guidance for NATO's strategic command level.

Gallery: NATO Sõjalise Komitee esimees admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, 20.02.2026 | Flickr

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