Holiday Greetings by Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur

Dear friends, allies, in Estonia and abroad,

I bring you warm regards from our service members stationed here in Iraq within the US-led Operation Inherent Resolve. As the holiday season approaches, I want to extend my heartfelt holiday greetings to all our service members, our allies and their families. May this season bring you peace, joy, warmth and strength.

As I stand on this ground, far from our homeland, I am reminded of the shared values that unite us across borders - the pursuit of peace, security, and stability. The same values that our friends in Ukraine are fighting for as we speak. Let us also take time to think about their struggles and about how we can support them even further in their path to victory.

Estonian soldiers have proudly stood shoulder to shoulder with our allies on missions like this one. Here in Iraq, our contribution is part of a broader effort to support regional security, fight terrorism, and build the foundations for lasting peace. Every Estonian soldier here serves not only our national interests but also the collective good of the international community.

Just as we stand together here, we also stand together at home. In Estonia, allied forces play a vital role in the collective defence of our region. The presence of troops from the US, UK and France on our soil, as well as from countries securing our skies within the NATO Air Policing mission and Air Defence rotations, is a testament to the strength of our alliances and the resolve of NATO's commitment to deterrence and defence. Our unity is our strength, and it sends a clear message - we are prepared, we are united, and we are resolute.

To all those serving at home and abroad: your courage and commitment are seen and deeply valued. Thanks to you, both Estonia and the alliance are stronger and defended better than ever.

From Iraq, I send you my deepest gratitude and wish you a peaceful and joyous holiday season filled with hope and togetherness.