In an interview with the British publication The Telegraph, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna emphasized that NATO's response to any Russian aggression towards the Baltic states—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—would involve retaliation that extends into Russian territory. Tsahkna asserted that NATO's military strategy would not be confined to defending the Baltic countries but would instead involve significant offensive operations aimed at crippling Russian capabilities far within its borders.

Tsahkna's remarks come amid escalating tensions between Russia and NATO, particularly following increases in Russian military build-up along its western borders, including the border with Finland. The Baltic states have expressed growing concerns regarding potential Russian aggression and have proactively increased their defense budgets by 5 to 6 percent of their GDP as a preventive measure. This increase in military spending highlights the urgency with which these nations are responding to perceived threats from Russia.

The Estonian minister’s statements underscore the commitment of NATO allies to collective defense and the importance of deterrence in Eastern Europe. Given that NATO operates on the principle of collective defense, any attack on one member is viewed as an attack on all, solidifying the alliance’s resolve to counteract any potential Russian incursion effectively. Tsahkna’s comments reflect a clear intention to prepare comprehensively for the defense of the Baltics in the face of looming threats from Russia, aiming for a strong unified response if provoked.