While answering the questions of the MPs, Kaja Kallas refused to guarantee that the Estonian Defense Forces will not be sent to Ukraine.
Parliamentarians repeatedly asked Kallas about Estonia's plans to send a military contingent to help Kyiv. To which the prime minister replied that such issues had not been considered and tried to clarify misunderstandings related to terminology.
"We have not talked about the deployment of ground troops. The issue of sending ground troops was not discussed. In English it is labeled as ground troops, troops on the ground or soldiers on the ground, implying the deployment of troops in a certain country. Nevertheless, different countries send specialists to train the Ukrainian military," Kallas said.
However, after repeated demands for guarantees from the EKRE faction, Kallas emphasized that the final decision is not up to her.
"Sending the military abroad requires the approval of the Riigikogu (literally translated as 'State Assembly'), so the decision is yours. As with other missions, your consent is required. I cannot make this decision alone. This matter will not go without your attention," Callas remarked.
There were also questions from conservatives about the guarantees of non-interference of the Estonian Defense Forces in the war in Ukraine and Kallas' plans in case of war. The prime minister did not provide any guarantees.
"I cannot make such promises because of the possibility of changing circumstances. Your understanding of 'intervention' may vary. Even our military support for Ukraine could be perceived by Russia as intervention, because we seek a victory for Ukraine and a defeat for Russia to return to its borders. We are clear on the choice of side - Ukraine, as Russia is a direct threat to us," Callas said.
Regarding the issues of her own evacuation in case of Russian aggression against Estonia, the prime minister said that there are no plans yet, but to talk about it as well.
