Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, to visit Estonia

"We hope for the support of the European Union and the Commission in order to quickly fill the capability gaps in the defence of the European eastern flank," said the Estonian prime minister before the meeting.

"It is very positive that the Commission's new long-term budget proposal presented in July includes more money for both EU defence capabilities and cross-border connections. This is very important for our region. However, swift action is needed even sooner," Michal explained.

According to the prime minister, continued European pressure on Russia, which is waging a war of aggression, is necessary. "We must quickly move forward with the 19th package of sanctions against Russia and also progress Ukraine's EU accession negotiations," he said.

The visit of Ursula von der Leyen to Estonia is part of a larger visit to the region, which aims to emphasise solidarity with border countries and support the development of the European defence industry.

Dear journalists!

You are cordially invited to cover the visit of the European Commission President to Ämari Air Base on Saturday.

The media will be able to attend a joint press conference by the Estonian prime minister and the European Commission President at Ämari Air Base, which will begin on Saturday at 3:45 p.m. You must be at the air base gate no later than 3 p.m. Prior accreditation is required. You must bring an identity document with you.

Please note! The press conference will be held entirely in English!

To be accredited, you must send your name, the publication you represent, and your personal identification code or document number to [email protected]. Please confirm your attendance by Friday morning at 11 a.m. at the latest.

Additional information: Carlos Kleimann, [email protected], +372 5649 8043

Government Communication Unit