VIDEO. Tensions in Europe: on the ground with French soldiers on exercise for NATO near the Russian border

“Bounce, go, go…” In a NATO camp in Estonia, less than 100 kilometers from the Russian border, French soldiers are preparing for the worst scenario: having to face a regular Russian army, buried in more than a meter of snow. “I’ve never had this cold before. I can’t feel my fingers anymore”says a soldier. With their British and Estonian counterparts, the French compete in exercises with blank bullets. These operations, carried out every year, have a dissuasive value.

Since 2017, facing Russia, NATO forces have positioned themselves defensively in the Baltic countries and in Romania. In recent weeks, Russian troops have been closing in on Europe and making these small states, former members of the USSR, fear the worst. “If the conflict really exists, we will be there to help the Estonians and the Ukrainians”assures a young member of the 5th regiment of Dragoons. “We are there on a non-aggressive device”insists the management.

“We are ready for any threat but we are not here to provoke.”

Colonel Eric Mauger, commander of the French forces in Estonia

to France 2

The French mission in Estonia ends in a month. “They will be relieved immediately by Danish soldiers”says journalist Diane Schlienger, special correspondent in Estonia.