Estonian Foreign Minister Eva-Maria Liimets granted an interview to FRANCE 24. Her country is one of the five EU member states that border Russia. Liimets explained why Estonia strongly supports Ukraine’s bid to join the EU. She also warned that "we have to be very cautious" in talks with Russia, adding that "we have to be prepared for long-term instability in Europe" as a result of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Speaking to FRANCE 24 from the capital Tallinn, Estonia's Foreign Minister Eva-Maria Liimets said that "Ukraine is not only defending itself, it is also defending European values" and "must be able to choose its destiny".
The Baltic nation is one of eight EU member states that are calling for Ukraine to be granted immediate EU "candidate" status – a key step towards EU membership.
Eva-Maria Liimets told FRANCE 24 that the West "must continue its efforts" to end the war, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24.
She also warned that "we have to be very cautious" in talks with Russia, which has "violated international law, international agreements and commitments and also they have not kept their word".
Meanwhile, as discussions continue about strengthening EU sanctions on Russia, the minister said the current measures could be made stronger: "We must make this war costly for Russia."
