Estonian FM urges EU to accelerate 21st sanctions package against Russia

Europe must intensify pressure on Russia through a new sanctions package, impose a full ban on its maritime operations, and accelerate Ukraine's path toward EU membership, according to Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, cited by Report's European bureau.

Speaking ahead of the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels, Tsahkna said that the absence of a large-scale Victory Day parade in Moscow demonstrated Russia's weakness.

"Russia is much weaker than many in the West believe. Putin was even afraid to properly celebrate May 9," he said.

The minister stressed that the EU should urgently adopt its 21st sanctions package against Russia, including a "full maritime ban," and step up support for Ukraine.

"We must apply more pressure on Russia to bring it to real negotiations. I believe we are very close to Russia changing its position," Tsahkna said.

He also called for all negotiating clusters for Ukraine and Moldova's EU accession process to be opened before the June European Council meeting.

Raising the issue of Schengen visas, Tsahkna noted that over 600,000 visas were issued to Russian citizens by Schengen countries last year.

He said Estonia had proposed a common visa ban policy targeting Russian military personnel involved in the war against Ukraine, adding that such individuals should be blacklisted from access to the Schengen area.

"These people must know they will never enter Europe. The only place for them is The Hague," he stated.

The minister also highlighted the importance of establishing a special tribunal for what he described as Russia's crimes against Ukraine, saying that 29 countries have already joined the initiative.

Commenting on the potential mediating role of former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder, Tsahkna rejected the idea of a separate communication channel with Moscow.

"Schröder is on Putin"s side and will not represent Europe," he said.

Asked about a possible redeployment of US troops from Germany to the Baltic region, Tsahkna said the presence of American forces is welcome.

"If the US decides to send more troops to our region, that is always a good thing," he added.