Raimond Kaljulaid is a member of the National Defense Committee. He says that the decreasing role of the USA in NATO does not mean that everything is over for Estonia. Kaljulaid spoke about this on "Terevisioon" on Monday morning. He said that Estonia has its own defense capability and closest allies. We also have European allies and participate in cooperation.
Kaljulaid recommends taking US President Donald Trump's words about leaving NATO more seriously. He says that not only Trump, but also other officials have said that changes are needed in NATO. For example, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said this.
Kaljulaid believes it is difficult for the USA to leave NATO. If President Trump makes US participation in NATO meaningless, it could harm NATO. Kaljulaid agrees with the Estonian government that there is no need to act hastily. We need to wait and see what happens.
Kaljulaid is concerned about how Trump behaves towards the British Prime Minister and the French President. Trump has insulted them and hurt their spouses. This creates a situation where people do not want to meet with Trump.
Kaljulaid explained that politicians have thick skin, but if a meeting with Trump could cause harm, politicians do not want to meet with him. Over the weekend, it was said that the British Prime Minister cannot restore relations with Trump. This is a big problem.
Kaljulaid added that Trump's words and actions should not be overthought. Trump makes posts and speaks. It is easier to take his words as he says them. There is no need to constantly think about what he really meant.