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Estonia probes possible Russian role in arson of defence firm

Estonia's prime minister said investigators are examining a potential Russian link to a recent arson at a defence contractor's premises.

A building occupied by Milrem Robotics, a supplier of unmanned military systems used in Ukraine, was set on fire late on Friday, prompting a criminal investigation. Prosecutors reported that suspects have been identified and that sabotage, possibly with Russian involvement, is one scenario under review. Prime Minister Kristen Michal posted on X that the possibility of Russian participation is being examined, stressing Estonia's determination to safeguard its defence industry.

The Russian embassy in Tallinn did not reply to a request for comment. The incident heightens concerns voiced by neighboring leaders, including Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda and Polish officials, about Russian attacks reaching NATO's Baltic members. Moscow routinely dismisses accusations of sabotage outside Ukraine as propaganda, while Estonia vowed to protect its people and companies against intimidation.

Why it matters

Possible Russian sabotage of a defence supplier raises security risks for NATO's eastern border.

In this story

arson attackdefence contractorRussiaEstoniaMilrem RoboticssabotageBaltic securityUkraine war
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