Estonia announced plans to shut down all border crossings with Russia beginning December 1 in response to a suspected sabotage attack on Threod Systems, a defence company that manufactures long-range drones. Eight individuals were detained during the attempted assault on the facility over the weekend, with authorities indicating the objective was to cause an explosion and ignite the building. No injuries or property damage resulted from the incident, as the company’s security personnel successfully intervened.
Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal characterized the border closure as a necessary measure to mitigate risks of further attacks and to demonstrate that assaults on Estonia’s defence infrastructure would not be tolerated. He connected the incident to Estonia’s ongoing military and political support for Ukraine, stating that Russia seeks to intimidate the nation and undermine its resolve. The government framed its response as a commitment to strengthening security, deepening cooperation with business and international partners, and maintaining backing for Ukraine.
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna reinforced the message that hostile actions against the country would face consequences. The closure affects three operational border crossings: Narva in the northern region and both Koidula and Luhamaa in the southern portion of the border. Officials did not specify the duration of the closure.
This represents the second alleged Russian-directed attack on an Estonian defence firm in recent months. An arson incident at Milrem Robotics earlier this year was similarly attributed to Russian special services by the Estonian security agency Kapo. Intelligence services across Europe have previously cautioned about rising threats to defence infrastructure and expanding Russian recruitment efforts targeting citizens in EU and NATO member states through online channels to conduct sabotage operations.
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