Estonia joins Finland’s call to suspend tourist visas for Russian citizens across the European Union. As Russia continues its relentless assault on Ukraine, bombing cities, destroying civilian infrastructure, and killing innocent people, it is unacceptable that Russian citizens can still enjoy unrestricted leisure travel within the Schengen area. Visa policy must reflect the gravity of Russia’s ongoing aggression. The EU should continue to strengthen pressure on the Kremlin through all available means. We also urge the EU to swiftly adopt the necessary implementing acts to establish a comprehensive entry ban on Russian combatants.

Tallinn and Helsinki are two marvellous cities with strong ties, shared interests and the potential to grow into an even more connected metropolitan region. I had a good meeting with Helsinki Mayor Daniel Sazonov @Dansazo about how to build on that potential. A key part of our conversation was the Tallinn–Helsinki tunnel, which could bring our cities closer and strengthen links across the wider region and with the rest of Europe. Connected to Rail Baltica, the tunnel would be part of a broader European transport network, creating new opportunities for people, businesses and tourism while strengthening our region’s resilience. Now we need to move forward with planning, bring together partners at the city, regional and national levels, and take practical steps in both cities to prepare for the tunnel.

We meet often, including just last week in New York and regularly in Brussels, but it was a real pleasure to sit down properly with you here in Helsinki, dear @elinavaltonen. Estonia and Finland face the same security challenges and share a clear view of what it will take to end Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Close coordination and joint action are essential. I briefed Elina on the arson attack against Milrem Robotics, which Estonia has established was an act of sabotage ordered by Russian special services. Russia will not intimidate us into reducing our support for Ukraine or our pressure on Moscow. We also spoke in depth about competitiveness and connectivity. A Tallinn–Helsinki tunnel, linked to Rail Baltica, could bring the Nordic and Baltic region closer to the rest of Europe, boost tourism and competitiveness, and make our critical infrastructure more resilient. Thank you for hosting me in beautiful autumnal Helsinki, dear Elina!