Estonia minister quits after €70-million Ukraine shell deal involving Indian firm
Estonia's Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur has resigned following a controversy over a €70 million EU-funded artillery shell deal involving an Indian firm. The deal is currently under arbitration due to concerns regarding the supplier's lack of experience in ammunition sales.
Why it matters
The resignation underscores the political risks associated with international defense procurement and the scrutiny of public funds during wartime.
Estonia’s defence minister Hanno Pevkur has resigned over an arms deal to supply artillery shells to Ukraine using €70 million in European Union funds and involving Indian company, Euronews reported.It emerged on Wednesday that Estonia had paid the amount upfront for the shells, but the Indian company involved had no previous record of selling artillery ammunition.The 2024 deal is now being challenged by Estonia in an arbitration case.Pevkur, who has been defence minister since 2022, said he was taking political responsibility for the controversy.“Although the minister does not count socks and ammunition or conduct contract negotiations, the National Audit Office’s criticisms, primarily concerning…
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