Authorities say Russian intelligence service ordered attack Estonian PM links to Tallinn’s support for Ukraine
Estonia will close all its border crossings with Russia from 1 December after a suspected sabotage attack on a drone maker in the Baltic state over the weekend, which authorities said was ordered by Russia’s GRU military intelligence service.
On Saturday morning, eight people were detained during an attempted attack on Threod Systems, a defence company that manufactures long-range attack and reconnaissance drones. No injuries or damage were reported after the company’s security team responded to the incident.
Estonia’s internal security service, Kapo, said on Sunday the attack was carried out “with the aim of causing an explosion and setting the building on fire”. Authorities have requested a court order for five of those detained to remain in custody, Estonia’s public broadcaster ERR reported.
The Estonian prime minister, Kristen Michal, said the border closure was needed to reduce the risk of further attacks and “send a clear message that attacks on Estonia’s defence industry and defence capabilities” were unacceptable.
He linked the attacks with Estonia’s continuing support for Ukraine. “Russia’s aim is to make us afraid, make us hesitate and weaken our support for Ukraine. Estonia’s response is the opposite.