The war in the Middle East is hindering the arrival of American weapons in Europe. Both Finland and Estonia report delays in deliveries and call for more powerful weapons of their own.
The delivery of some US defense equipment to Europe is delayed due to the war in the Middle East. This was stated by the presidents of Finland and Estonia on Tuesday, writes TASR according to Reuters.
- The war in the Middle East is causing delays in US defense supplies to Europe.
- The Finnish president admitted the redirection of some American supplies, he does not consider the situation alarming.
- Estonia has been officially informed about the delay in the delivery of HIMARS missile systems.
- The Estonian president called for faster development of the domestic and European defense industry.
- The Americans warned several European partners that the contracted arms deliveries would be delayed.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb said that some American supplies are going to other places because of the war in Iran, but he does not consider it alarming for his country.
The reaction of the Estonian president
Estonian President Alar Karis stated that his country had been informed of the delay related to the HIMARS missile systems. “This gives a signal that in Estonia and in Europe in general, we should develop our defense industry much faster,” added Karis.
Reuters reported on April 16, citing sources familiar with the matter, that US officials have informed some European partners, including the Baltics and Scandinavia, that some previously contracted arms deliveries are likely to be delayed as the war in the Middle East depletes arms stocks.
