Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday arrived in Estonia, where he is expected to take part in a summit of Nordic and Baltic leaders.
Zelenskyy arrived in the Estonian capital of Tallinn following a visit to the UK, where he took part in an E3-plus-Ukraine format meeting involving British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
Ahead of the Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB8) summit later Tuesday, Zelenskyy said he discussed work in Europe to develop anti-ballistic defense capabilities, as well as the preparation of an agreement in the Drone Deal format, with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo.
“The teams are working, and the main thing is that there be more protection in Europe,” Zelenskyy said in a statement through US social media company X.
He further said that special attention was given to Ukraine’s needs in strengthening air defense, security challenges in the region, and diplomatic work to “achieve a dignified peace.”
Noting that he informed the Finnish premier about Kyiv’s contacts with Europeans and Americans, Zelenskyy added that he is grateful to Finland for its support for Ukraine, including with regard to military packages and contributions to the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List initiative.
Zelenskyy later confirmed a meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, thanking him for his support for Ukraine.
“We are doing our utmost to ensure that the Gripens (fighter jets) become operational and that we continue to maintain strong ties with Sweden,” Zelenskyy said.
Estonian public broadcaster ERR reported earlier in the day that Zelenskyy arrived in Tallinn to attend the NB8 summit and meet with President Alar Karis.
Last month, Sweden announced a new military aid package worth about $2.7 billion for Ukraine, including plans to donate 16 Saab Gripen C/D fighter jets and deepen long-term defense cooperation between the two countries.