Estonian officials say a recent encounter with Russian soldiers on a shortcut through Russian territory has prompted the government to accelerate construction of a new border‑avoiding road.
Estonia Presses for Road Avoiding Russian Territory
Estonian authorities are demanding construction of a road that will avoid Russian territory. Minister of Infrastructure Kudar Leis spoke on national radio about route 178, which connects Värska and Saatse in the southeast. Nearly a kilometre of this stretch passes through Russian land. An agreement made more than two decades ago allows travelers to pass without border checks, a shortcut mainly used by locals.
Inciting Incident Highlights Security Gaps
After hybrid attacks intensified, the section became unsafe. A few days ago, unidentified armed Russian soldiers were spotted there. Leis said the incident exposed gaps in security. The government has begun informal talks to speed up a solution, including building an alternative route.
Environmental Hurdle Still Blocks Progress
The idea of an alternate road is not new; the decision was taken last year and funds were allocated. Work stalled because the Estonian Environmental Council demanded a full environmental impact assessment. Politicians now insist national security is a priority and are drafting an amendment so the road can be built next year.
Border Guard and Travel Safety Concerns
Internal Affairs Minister Igor Taro said border guards monitor the situation, but under current conditions ensuring safety for travelers could be very difficult. The route remains closed until the Thursday (16 Oct) cabinet meeting.
October 10 Incident and Temporary Closure
On Friday, 10 Oct, the Estonian border guard temporarily closed a fragment of the border on road 178. The service cited a group of Russian soldiers as the cause. Local media reported the unit had only a few men and stood directly on the road used by Estonians. Taro said the soldiers had exited the area. The road is scheduled to be closed until Tuesday (14 Oct). He added that the incident did not alter the security situation or pose an immediate war threat. Estonian diplomacy chief Margus Tschakna called reports of escalating tensions exaggerated.
