France, Estonia Deepen Defense Ties Amid Russia Policy Rift
French Minister for European Affairs Benjamin Haddad and his Estonian counterpart Margus Tsahkna signed a multi-year strategic partnership in Tallinn, cementing a united front on European defense and support for Ukraine even as Paris defends its suggestion to re-engage diplomatically with Moscow.
- —France's Minister for European Affairs, Benjamin Haddad, visited Estonia and defended President Macron's suggestion to re-engage with Russia, emphasizing Europe's need to be a significant power at the negotiation table.
- —Haddad highlighted France's commitment to increasing defense spending and achieving European strategic autonomy, citing a need for greater self-sufficiency in defense, technology, and energy due to global shifts and potential dependencies on allies.
- —During his visit, Haddad and Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna signed a strategic partnership action plan for 2026-2030, focusing on strengthening European security, supporting Ukraine, and increasing pressure on Russia.
- —Estonian Foreign Minister Tsahkna stressed the importance of Europe increasing its defense capabilities and strategic resilience, advocating for further sanctions against Russia and the creation of a special tribunal for the crime of aggression.
- —The ministers also discussed potential Schengen entry bans and residence permit restrictions for Russian citizens who have fought in Ukraine, and the importance of the EU's open-door policy for Ukraine and Moldova.
Recap
France's diplomatic outreach in the Baltics is a calculated move to build consensus for its vision of European strategic autonomy, using shared security concerns as leverage. While Paris and Tallinn align on bolstering defense and aiding Ukraine, the French push for dialogue with Moscow reveals a fundamental split: France is positioning the EU for a post-conflict world where it is a primary actor, while frontline states like Estonia remain focused on ensuring Russia's unequivocal defeat.