Three Russian border guards illegally crossed into Estonia on the Narva River on 17 December, prompting intensified patrols and diplomatic inquiries.
Border Incident at Narva River
On 17 December, Estonian police and the border guard service (PPA) discovered an unlawful crossing along the Narva River breakwater.
Russian Officers Involved
The breach was carried out by three Russian border guard officers. They were intercepted by a surveillance drone near the Vasknarva pier and then exited the pier, proceeding along its length.
Estonian Response and Diplomatic Contact
Estonia logged the event with monitoring equipment, conducted a preliminary check at the pier, and officially contacted the Russian Federation’s border service for explanations. The head of the Eastern Prefecture Border Guard Office, Eerik Purgel, confirmed the outreach.
Return of Russian Officials and Clarification Request
The Russian officers subsequently returned to Russia. Estonia will seek clarifications at a forthcoming meeting of border service representatives, and the Russian embassy’s chargé d’affaires in Estonia will be summoned.
Enhanced Patrols and Security Measures
The incident posed no immediate threat to security, but the Estonian border guard service has significantly increased its presence and patrols in the area.
Estonia’s Support for Ukraine
Estonia is the first EU country to propose using frozen Russian assets to compensate Ukraine for wartime losses. Minister Margus Tsahkna urged that these funds be loaned to Ukraine to sustain its economy and advocated for Ukraine’s EU membership as a security guarantee.