Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has issued a warning about the dangers of discussing the need to make concessions to Russia for the sake of peace, asserting that all demands for ending the war should be directed solely at Moscow. In a column published on ERR, Tsahkna noted the growing calls for peace following nearly three years of brutal Russian aggression against Ukraine, but stressed that this trend signals a dangerous shift, indicating that Western confidence is wavering.
He cautioned that even the slightest hint of compromise would only encourage Russia to continue its aggressive path. Referring to the Munich Agreement of 1938, Tsahkna pointed out that concessions to an aggressor only delay conflict, without ensuring peace. He emphasized that the current situation mirrors the prelude to World War II, but noted that there is still time to avoid the mistakes of the past.
"The Munich Agreement of 1938 should serve as a lesson and a warning that appeasement and the pursuit of peace at any cost will not lead to lasting peace," he stated. "Attempts to buy stability by offering an aggressor the freedom of other countries will inevitably end in disaster for all, as the aggressor’s appetite will only grow."
Tsahkna also underscored that there is no sign that Putin has abandoned his imperialistic goals or genuinely desires peace. Thus, any suggestion of territorial concessions to Russia is extremely dangerous.
"Should the aggressor gain what he previously did not have, we must be prepared for him to push further, seeking more territory through force," Tsahkna warned.
He reiterated that any concessions would allow Russia to regroup and continue its bloodshed in pursuit of its goals.
The Estonian Minister made it clear that a just and lasting peace can only be secured if the aggressor retreats to its borders, is held accountable for its crimes, and compensates for the damages caused by the war.
"The aggressor's losses must be clear," Tsahkna said. "He must exit the war in a worse state than when he started."
The only path to peace, he concluded, is Russia’s withdrawal from Ukraine and the preservation of Ukraine’s borders. All demands for an end to the war, Tsahkna asserted, must be directed at Moscow.
