Prince William will arrive in Tallinn this morning to kickstart a two-day trip to Estonia amid growing uncertainty about the Ukraine war. Shortly after arriving in the Baltic State, the Prince of Wales will meet with Alar Karis, the President of Estonia, at the Presidential Office before carrying out engagements linked to two of his key interests: mental health and the environment.
William’s visit to Estonia comes at a crucial time politically, with uncertainty over the war in Ukraine and pressure on NATO countries to increase defence spending to deter Russian aggression. But his trip will serve as a reminder of Britain’s commitment to Ukraine and the security of its allies as he visits UK troops guarding Nato’s border with Russia.
It’s a key example of the Royal Family’s soft power and sends a firm message that the UK stands with Ukraine and the Baltic states.
Estonia shares a 183-mile border with Russia and has been a key supporter of Ukraine. Being so close to the Kremlin, the country is concerned that if Ukraine were to fall, its sovereignty would be at risk.
Lithuania and Latvia, which also border Russia, are also becoming increasingly concerned.
The royal visit has been planned for some months but is particularly timely as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer holds talks with his counterparts about potential troop involvement in any ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.
Diplomatic sources have said that in the current context, Estonia is fearful that, following a peace deal, Russia could re-arm rapidly and threaten Ukraine again or attack Estonia and other Northern European NATO allies, which makes them value the UK military presence here even more strongly.
On Thursday, William will visit a school teaching refugees from the war in Ukraine. He’ll speak to teachers about their experiences and how they have helped students settle in and safeguard their mental wellbeing after being forced to flee their home country.
During the visit, the prince will get stuck into a sports activity with pupils from the school and a Ukrainian language lesson. William will conclude the first day of his visit by visiting a renewable energy start-up.
Tomorrow, the prince will visit the Mercian Regiment in his role as their Colonel-in-Chief, and join them for training under Operation Cabrit, the UK’s contribution to Nato’s Forward Land Forces along the border.
William’s visit to Estonia comes just weeks after the King hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Sandringham just days after his public spat with Donald Trump in the White House.
