Estonia to close all border crossings with Russia from Dec 1 after attempted arson attack on defense plant

Estonian Prime Minister Kristal Michal announced on Sunday, November 15, that Estonia will close all border crossings with Russia starting December 1, according to Ukrinform. The decision comes after an attempted arson attack on a defense plant in Estonia. Michal stated that Estonia will not be intimidated and is preparing for the possibility of closing its border with Russia to reduce risks to its people and national security.

The attack, organized by Russia's military intelligence service GRU, targeted an Estonian defense company called Threod Systems. Fortunately, extensive security measures and a quick response by law enforcement prevented extensive damage. The attackers have been apprehended. Michal attributed the attack to Russia's broader hybrid war against Europe, aiming to decrease support for Ukraine and pressure Russia.

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna confirmed that all border crossing points along the Estonian-Russian border will be closed on December 1, emphasizing that hostile actions against Estonia will have consequences. He informed Finnish, Latvian, and Lithuanian counterparts about the decision. The Prosecutor General's Office stated that an attempt was made overnight on November 14 to set fire to the premises of Threod Systems, and eight Latvian residents were detained, with five held in custody.