The Estonian government has decided to allocate an additional 476 million euros for strengthening national defense and 86 million euros for anti-crisis activities.

According to Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, these funds, taking into account the 380 million euros that the Estonian authorities allocated for defense in January, will increase the level of defense spending to an average of 2.5% of GDP over the next four years.

The Prime Minister specified that another 86 million euros will be allocated to provide additional funding for activities that will help society better prepare for crises. Part of these funds will go to ensure internal security associated with military operations in Ukraine, part - to protect the population.

Defense Minister Kalle Laanet added that the additional 476 million euros will strengthen six areas of defense: short-range air defense, anti-tank defense, indirect fire, situational awareness, allied infrastructure and the volunteer paramilitary organization Defense League.