Russian intelligence continues to show interest in Estonia, according to the country’s Internal Security Service (KAPO), which presented its annual national security report. The agency’s director general, Margot Palloson, noted that further deterioration in regional security is a very real scenario, primarily due to Russia’s actions. However, Estonia remains a safe country and continues to strengthen its position, as reported by ERR.
The report emphasizes that despite public statements, Russia seeks to dismantle the European security architecture and drive NATO from its eastern borders. Moscow views Estonia as part of its sphere of influence, and its aggressive policy against Ukraine — including hybrid operations in other European countries — is part of this strategy. In 2024, incidents of arson, vandalism, and sabotage coordinated by Russian military intelligence have been recorded across Europe.
In Estonia alone, five individuals associated with the GRU have been convicted this year. Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale war in Ukraine, 15 residence permits have been revoked based on KAPO’s recommendations. In 2023, about ten individuals were arrested for vandalism ordered by Russia, including the arson of a car with Ukrainian plates in Tartu. These actions aimed to destabilize the situation and undermine support for Ukraine.
The report notes that support for the Kremlin in Estonia, traditionally coming from the older generation, is decreasing. In its place, there are attempts to influence the younger Russian-speaking population. This is evident in the increased use of social media propaganda, deepfakes, and manipulations using algorithms and artificial intelligence. KAPO stresses the importance of critical thinking and media literacy, especially among young people, to counter disinformation and extremist messages.
The report also highlights the use of virtual currencies in criminal activities — from financing terrorism to cyberattacks and espionage. This presents new challenges for law enforcement in regulation, transaction monitoring, and cybersecurity.
Furthermore, Estonian authorities are developing a comprehensive de-radicalization plan and strengthening control over extremist content on the internet. While the threat of terrorism remains low in the country, even a single attack could have devastating consequences, according to KAPO.
In 2024, the service conducted training and briefings for nearly two thousand people across various sectors. KAPO continues to work closely with domestic and international partners, maintaining transparency with oversight bodies and adhering to high professional ethics and legal standards.
According to Margot Palloson, despite global instability, Estonia is strengthening its security and is prepared for potential challenges. The Internal Security Service will continue to actively work to ensure the country remains resilient in the face of external pressure.
