Prince William has arrived in Estonia to show his support for British troops stationed near the Russian border.
The Prince of Wales is undertaking a two-day visit on behalf of the UK Government and the Foreign Office.
His trip comes at a crucial time for reassuring Estonians of Britain’s commitment to both their security and to Ukraine.
The royal visit will highlight the UK’s contribution to NATO’s eastern flank, where British forces are deployed under Operation Cabrit.
Prince William has arrived in Estonia to show his support for British troops stationed near the Russian border
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Around 900 British personnel rotate on a continuous basis alongside Danish, French and Estonian forces at Tapa camp, located 100 miles from the Russian border.
The visit sends a message about the UK’s commitment to defending the Baltic states amid growing tensions with Russia.
William will begin his visit by meeting Estonia’s President Alar Karis in Tallinn on Thursday.
He will also visit Freedom School, established by Estonia’s Ministry of Education in May 2022 in response to the war in Ukraine.
Prince William visited the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards during a live firing exercise on Salisbury Plain in November 2024
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The school supports approximately 60,000 Ukrainian refugees currently living in Estonia.
On Friday, the prince will travel to Tapa camp in his role as colonel-in-chief of the Mercian Regiment where he will oversee an official handover ceremony between The Royal Dragoon Guards and the Mercian Regiment.
William will view military equipment, visit the field training area and meet with the welfare team.
Additionally, the prince will attend an event to learn about renewable energy start-ups.
The Prince of Wales is undertaking a two-day visit on behalf of the UK government and the Foreign Office
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Estonia, that shares a 183-mile border with Russia and has been a key supporter of Ukraine since the invasion began, fears it could be Russia’s next target following any peace deal with Ukraine.
The country is concerned Russia could re-arm rapidly and threaten Ukraine again or attack Estonia and other Northern European NATO allies.
The Baltic state has recently increased its military preparedness, planning to raise defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP.
Estonia has also withdrawn from a treaty banning anti-personnel landmines, signalling rising tensions.
