On February 11, 2025, in Tallinn, a meeting took place between Ambassador of Ukraine Maksym Kononenko and Estonia’s Minister of Climate Yoko Alender. The parties discussed key issues related to energy security, the restoration of Ukraine’s maritime infrastructure, humanitarian demining, and the coordination of international support. 

Ukraine supports Estonia’s strategic decision to disconnect from Russia’s energy system (IPS/UPS) and integrate into the European network. This is a crucial step toward strengthening the region’s energy independence and integrating into the EU’s energy market.

In light of recent Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, Ambassador M.Kononenko appealed to the Estonian side to assist in supplying critically needed equipment for the restoration of Ukraine’s power system.

Estonia continues to play a key role in the reconstruction of Ukraine’s maritime sector. In January 2025, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Estonia’s Ministry of Climate and Ukraine’s Ministry for Communities, Territories, and Infrastructure Development on the rebuilding of Ukraine’s maritime industry. The parties will work to attract donors and coordinate joint projects to implement this initiative. 

Ambassador M.Kononenko emphasized that demining remains one of Ukraine’s key challenges. During the meeting, the parties discussed the possibility of leveraging Estonian technologies, digital solutions, and educational programs for training demining specialists. 

The discussion also addressed the risks of Russia circumventing sanctions. The Ukrainian side urged Estonia to pay close attention to transportation schemes that could be used to violate sanctions. 

Special attention was given to the activities of Russia’s so-called "shadow fleet," which not only engages in illegal transportation but may also pose a threat to critical underwater infrastructure. Ukraine is ready to cooperate with international partners to put an end to these illegal operations. 

Ukraine and Estonia will continue to collaborate in key areas aimed at Ukraine’s recovery, strengthening security, and integration into the European economic and energy space.