President of the Republic today had a meeting with Lieutenant-General Johannes Kert, Commander of the Defence Forces. A long and thorough discussion took place. Among other matters, also issues related to the reform of command system were discussed. The Supreme Commander of National Defence satisfied Lieutenant-General Kert's application for resignation.

According to the Peacetime National Defence Act, Commander of the General Staff of the Defence Forces, Lieutenant-Colonel Aare Ermus will assume the command of the Defence Forces. Lieutenant-Colonel Ermus joined the meeting of the President and Lieutenant-General Kert, and the President assigned this task to him.

President Meri commented: ''My decision to satisfy Lieutenant-General Kert's application for resignation should by no means be seen as supersession of the Lieutenant-General. We are a small country and we need every pair of hands. But above all we need civilian control, an integral vision of how to develop our defence forces most efficiently with our modest means.''

The President also announced his decision to form a working-group at the National Defence Council for planning the reform of command system. The working-group would include the Minister of Defence, Lieutenant-General Johannes Kert and Brigadier-General Märt Tiru.

President of the Republic: ''In autumn, when the emotions have calmed down, we will solve the question who shall serve in which staff. I am convinced that the Lieutenant-General will accept my decision as a soldier and be prepared to continue his service in autumn at the point where his abilities will best serve the Republic of Estonia.''


Press Service of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, June 30, 2000

back | archive of press releases | main page