Estonia has temporarily closed a section of its border with Russia to curb movements of armed groups, officials said on Monday.
Closure of Estonia–Russia Border Section
Estonia has temporarily shut a segment of its border with Russia, citing an “evidently dangerous” situation caused by increased activity of armed groups.
Road 178, connecting Lutepaa and Sesniki, crosses a strip of Russian territory and was the focus of the restriction.
Border Guard Observes Armed Groups
Estonian Border Guard officials said they had observed several armed groups moving along the border and at key crossing points, including the Saatse Boot.
Some groups paused on the road before later positioning across it, creating an unsafe scenario, according to Meelis Saarepuu, head of the Southern Border Guard Office.
Temporary Restriction on Road 178
The restriction does not allow stopping, exiting or transferring vehicles on the affected road; travelers must use an alternative route.
Border patrols initially warned drivers, but many did not comply, leading authorities in Tallinn to order a full closure.
Estonian Border Guard Statement
In a statement, the Border Guard explained that patrols were initially stationed at the Estonian side of the route, advising drivers to avoid the area.
Authorities sought to prevent potential provocations and incidents, bolstered security forces in the region, and set up a detour through nearby villages.
Kremlin Condemns Baltic States and EU
Earlier this week, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused EU member states—Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia—of pursuing a “careless” posture toward Ukraine.
He warned that the Kremlin would meet with other EU countries if not for Poland and the Baltics, signalling Moscow’s intent to pressure the West.
Similar criticism appeared from Belarus’ President Alexander Lukashenko, who blamed the “radicalisation of neighbours” for recent tensions.
