Don’t try to ‘please the dictator,’ Estonian leader urges Europe about Putin

Europe shouldn't open a diplomatic channel to Russian President Vladimir Putin, warned the leader of one of the continent's most exposed nations. Estonia's Prime Minister Kristen Michal told POLITICO in an interview this week that Europe should not take on a mediator's role toward Russia.

U.S. Talks Reignite Debate

European leaders have long feared the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump may pursue a Russia-Ukraine peace deal that sidelines Europe and disadvantages Kyiv. Recent talks between Washington and Moscow have reignited debate in Brussels about Europe needing its own direct line to the Kremlin.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre held a 90-minute call with Putin in late October, demonstrating some European engagement with the Russian leader.

Sanctions Strategy

The Estonian premier, whose country of 1.3 million people borders Russia, warned that direct talks would weaken Europe's position with Putin. He emphasized that Europe's current approach of economic sanctions against Russia is working.

Michal argued that Europe cannot simultaneously support Ukraine and pressure Russia while attempting to mediate, saying: "Putin should understand that Europe is strong, keeping together and we have one voice."

U.S. Election Impact

With Trump's Republican Party in crisis after a major loss in the U.S. midterm elections, Europe is closely watching how the shift of power in the U.S. Congress will influence the president's position on Ukraine.

Michal commented on the election outcome, saying: "Elections have consequence. So this is a good thing in democracy, that you have checks and balances." He suggested the electoral shift could move Washington further "to the better side, more value-based side."

Visa Restrictions Push

To maintain pressure on Russia, Estonia has spearheaded a push with Poland and Sweden to toughen visa rules for Russians, including former fighters who fought in Ukraine. Tallinn has proposed an outright ban on allowing ex-soldiers from Russia's armed forces access to the EU.

Michal argued that tourist visas allow Russian operatives easy access into the bloc to conduct hybrid warfare campaigns. "You should not have these kind of people running around Europe. So limit the visas," he said, noting that the European Commission is planning to put forward proposals in the new year.