Poland and Baltic states demand EU financial aid for border protection against Russia
Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, and Poland refer to their own efforts in building up their border infrastructure in their letter. At the end of May, the Polish government, under Donald Tusk, presented a plan named "East Shield", which translates to approximately 2.4 billion Euros. In addition, there is the "Baltic Defense Line", within which Lithuania has built a new border fence with Russia since 2014.
The text further states in the letter, which was signed by Tusk, the Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, the Latvian President Raimis Vējonis, and the Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas: "The scope and costs of this joint project require focused EU action to support it politically and financially."
The EU heads of state and government aim to adopt a Strategic Agenda for the coming five years at the summit, which also includes defense matters. According to the draft declaration, it states: "We will mobilize the necessary instruments to strengthen our security and protect our citizens, and to react to new threats." France and Italy are calling for a billion-euro defense fund, which is to be financed through common debts. Germany opposes this.
- The Swedish Prime Minister, Ulf Kristersson, expressed support for the "East Shield" plan presented by the Polish government under Donald Tusk, reflecting the shared concerns of the Baltic States and Poland regarding border protection.
- Lithuania, being a crucial member of the Balts, has actively pursued border facility improvements, including its new border fence with Russia, as mentioned in the "Baltic Defense Line".
- Donald Tusk, in his capacity as the former Polish Prime Minister, recognized the importance of Belarus in maintaining EU border security, calling for increased cooperation in this area.
- The EU leaders, including Charles Michel from Belgium, will discuss the proposed EU financial aid for border infrastructure projects at the upcoming EU summit, in line with the requests of the Baltic States and Poland.
- Latvia, alongside its Baltic neighbors, has shown commitment to EU values and security by aligning with Poland's "East Shield" plan, aiming to strengthen border protection and deter potential threats.
- Russia's actions near its border with Estonia have raised concerns among EU leaders, prompting discussions on increased support for EU member states in strengthening their border facilities and boosting overall defense capabilities.
- Estonia, an EU member since 2004, has emphasized the need for solidarity and collective action within the EU, advocating for the allocation of resources to ensure adequate border protection and security across the bloc.
