Ukraine is planning to send air defense experts to Baltic states, particularly Estonia, to strengthen drone defense and prevent accidental incursions into NATO airspace. The initiative follows recent incidents, including drones crashing near Latvian territory and damage to an oil storage facility in Rezekne on May 7, 2026. Ukrainian officials have already contacted the Estonian embassy to coordinate measures, though the Estonian Armed Forces and Ministry of Defense are not yet directly involved.

Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur emphasized the need for clarity on Ukraine’s plans, noting that better control of Ukrainian drone operations is the most effective way to keep drones from entering Baltic airspace. While Ukraine retains the right to self-defense and targeting Russian assets, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna expressed concern about the risk of escalation, especially if Russia were to intercept or redirect Ukrainian drones toward NATO territory.

Discussions between the two nations include technical solutions such as kill switches for drones that veer off course. The cooperation highlights the growing complexity of air defense in Eastern Europe, where frontline conflict increasingly intersects with NATO’s collective security framework.