Future Estonian defence minister: Fear of mistakes must not stop us helping Ukraine

What Happened

Martin Herem, Estonia's candidate for defence minister, said in an interview with ERR radio programme Vikerhommik that the risk of mistakes in rapid arms procurement is inevitable, but fear of possible failures should not push Estonia into inaction in helping Ukraine. Herem, speaking before news of his possible appointment emerged, said that 'the only way not to fail is not to buy shells,' and that refusing to help Ukraine would seem criminal to him. He acknowledged that rapid procurement and willingness to take risks can sometimes lead to failures, but argued that not making decisions would put Estonia 'on a path of even faster decline.' Herem said Estonia's state and the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (RKIK) acted out of a desire to help Ukraine quickly and had not fallen behind other countries. On responsibility for failed decisions, he pointed to Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur, who announced his resignation on 2 September, citing the need to take political responsibility for National Audit Office remarks on the activities of the Defence Forces and RKIK. On 9 September, Prime Minister Kristen Michal proposed Herem for the post of defence minister, and Herem accepted.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

Estonia is a NATO member and one of Ukraine's most active European supporters, so changes in its defence leadership and procurement policy can affect the speed and volume of military aid reaching Ukraine. Herem's comments signal that Tallinn intends to maintain urgent weapons procurement despite audit criticism and political resignations, prioritising delivery speed over risk avoidance. That stance may reassure Kyiv and allies but also raises questions about oversight and accountability in Estonian defence spending.

Watch For

Watch for Herem's formal confirmation as Estonian defence minister and any parliamentary or coalition approval steps. Also monitor whether the National Audit Office publishes further findings on the Defence Forces or RKIK, and whether Estonia announces new arms procurement packages for Ukraine under the incoming minister.