By mid-January 2026, Estonia has carried out visible and intensified expulsions of individuals with pro-Russian sympathies, particularly in the border city of Narva. These actions are driven by national security priorities in response to the ongoing Russian aggression and influence operations. The Internal Security Service (KaPo), along with ministries such as justice and immigration, have been actively involved in identifying and expelling persons suspected of undermining Estonia’s security. Consequently, groups within Narva’s large Russian-speaking population have become notably silent and subdued. This approach differs from Finland’s more cautious policy regarding Russian influence and demonstrates Estonia’s firm stance on combating hybrid threats. The expulsions contribute to a significant reduction in Russian-messaging activities and social unrest risks on Estonia’s eastern border.
Category: Political & Legal Subversion
Subcategory: Lawfare & Legal Pressure
Country: Estonia
Source report: yle.fi/a/74-2020…
