On the 12th, the Foreign Minister of Estonia, one of the three Baltic states that borders Russia, said in an interview with NHK that ``Russia plans to restore its military power within three to five years.'' He acknowledged the need to increase the deterrence power of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), citing the possibility of regaining pre-invasion military strength.
Estonian Foreign Minister Tsavkuna, who was visiting Japan, gave an exclusive interview to NHK in Tokyo on the 12th.
He pointed out that Russia had lost many soldiers in its military invasion of Ukraine and that the troops stationed around the Baltic states could no longer be confirmed, adding, ``Russia is planning to attack NATO member countries militarily soon.'' I don't think it will happen," he said.
On the other hand, "Russia plans to restore its military strength in three to five years. This time must be used for preparation. President Putin has completely transformed Russia's economic system into one that produces instruments of war. "All NATO member states understand that Russia is a real threat," he said, indicating the need to increase NATO's deterrent capabilities against Russia.
He then said, ``Ukraine is fighting on our behalf. We must now support Ukraine and stop Putin's military invasion ambitions,'' and called on all countries to strengthen their support for Ukraine.