The Prince of Wales is set to undertake a solo overseas trip to Estonia later this month in his capacity as Colonel-in-Chief of the Mercian Regiment. Prince William, 42, will travel to the northeastern European country from Thursday 20 March to Friday 21 March to gain insight into the regiment’s role in bolstering NATO’s eastern flank as part of Operation Cabrit.
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During the two-day visit, the future King will also carry out engagements in the Estonian capital, Tallinn, to explore the nation’s response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as well as its advancements in renewable energy and technology. On the first day, William will meet with Alar Karis, the President of Estonia, which has been a key supporter of Ukraine, providing both military equipment and political backing.
The Prince will also visit a school established by the Ministry of Education and Research in May 2022 to support Ukrainian refugees. There, he will meet with Ukrainian teachers and hear firsthand about their experiences in helping students adjust to life in Tallinn while supporting their mental wellbeing. In addition, as part of his Earthshot Prize initiative, which seeks to recognise and scale-up environmental solutions, William will attend an event focused on renewable energy start-ups.
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On the second day, Prince William will visit Tapa Army Base, the site of the UK’s largest permanent overseas military deployment, where he will meet Estonian soldiers. The Prince will also attend a ceremony marking the handover of responsibilities from The Royal Dragoon Guards to The Mercian Regiment. This visit will be William’s first to Estonia, following his uncle, the Duke of Edinburgh’s visit to the country just weeks ago, and marks his first foreign trip of 2025.
