This article explores Estonia’s cyber support for Ukraine
following Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Despite its small size,
Estonia has significant cyber expertise and has played a pivotal
role in safeguarding Ukrainian digital infrastructure and provid-
ing cybersecurity support. While Estonian cyber contributions to
Ukraine are significant, it initially did not seek or receive interna-
tional attention. Estonia is typically vocal in promoting its cyberse-
curity and e-governance expertise. This article aims to first explore
the impact of Estonia’s cyber support for Ukraine. Second, it aims
to understand why Estonia did not try to use this support to bolster
its status as a cyber authority. To do this, Estonia’s cyber support
is analysed and put into the proper geopolitical context. Interviews
with high-ranking Estonian officials were conducted and an analysis
of policy output was performed. This article finds that the impor-
tance of cybersecurity assistance is not as critical as military assis-
tance, which is one reason why Estonia has not (yet) used its cyber
assistance as a status opportunity. Although cybersecurity support
may be considered secondary to military support, the significance
of Estonia’s cybersecurity assistance should not be overlooked.
Although Estonia did not pursue status initially, there are some
signs that this is beginning to change and Estonia is recognised for
its cyber expertise.