Speaking at the Lennart Meri Conference in Tallinn, an annual security policy forum now in its twentieth year, Karis said the values underpinning the free world and the international order were under attack from multiple directions.
"Autocratic countries seem to be better at wielding the sword than democratic countries are at raising the shield", he told attendees.
Karis said Russia must not be offered any lifeline or hope that aggression would ultimately pay off, a remark he tied to the contentious issue of allowing Russian participation in international sporting and cultural events. Estonia boycotted a vote at this year's Venice Art Biennale after Italian authorities declined to block the opening of the Russian pavilion.
The Estonian president argued that Europe should prioritize expanding its defense industries in close cooperation with Ukraine's defense sector, which he described as the world's fastest-growing and most innovative. He called EU membership for Ukraine the boldest possible show of support, and urged opening the door to Moldova, Montenegro and Albania as well.
"An ally like Ukraine would also strengthen NATO. The Ukrainian military is among the largest and most experienced in Europe, and NATO is already drawing on lessons from the Ukrainian front", Karis said.
With his five-year term drawing to a close, Karis remains the public's preferred choice for a second term. A recent poll by public broadcaster ERR showed nearly 40% support among ten leading political figures and potential candidates, rising to 70% in a hypothetical two-candidate race. Estonia's president is elected by parliament, not by popular vote, with elections scheduled for autumn.
(jh)
Source: PAP