In a recent foreign policy speech delivered to the Riigikogu, Margus Tsahkna articulated that the major impediment to achieving a fair and lasting peace is Russian President Vladimir Putin's conviction that time is on his side. Tsahkna asserted that true peace can only be reached if this belief is reversed, noting that Russia will not be willing to change its course until it perceives that time has turned against it. This commentary reflects the ongoing challenges in diplomatic negotiations and the complex perceptions governing international conflicts.

Tsahkna contextualized his remarks by reflecting on the global atmosphere, comparing it to the ominous feelings of the 1930s. He indicated that a year ago, discussions about foreign policy were centered around whether to allow threats to grow until it was too late or to decisively rally around the defense of fundamental values. The anticipation of major unrest and shifts in global power dynamics aligns with many analysts who share similar concerns about the unpredictable future of international relations.

As we approach 2026, Tsahkna noted a shift in discourse, moving from a discussion of an ending era to one of an emerging new reality. The standards and agreements that once governed international relations are now perceived as outdated, and uncertainty looms over what will replace them. Margus Tsahkna's insights highlight the urgency of responding effectively to these evolving geopolitical challenges and the need for strategic vision rather than nostalgia for the past.