Estonia is prepared to close its border crossings with Russia at short notice if the announcement of a general mobilisation in the Russian Federation alters the assessment of the security threat. Prime Minister Kristen Michal has stated that the relevant services are prepared for such a scenario. The decision will depend on the specific circumstances and the nature of any mobilisation, and will not be taken automatically.
Briefly about the main points
- The Estonian Security Council has considered a scenario involving a general mobilisation in Russia.
- Tallinn can swiftly close its border crossing points.
- Some border crossings are already operating on a reduced timetable and have stepped-up customs checks.
- Estonia anticipates an increase in migratory pressure on Europe.
- Avoiding mobilisation does not guarantee Russians international protection.
Decisions will be linked to developments in the security situation
The Estonian Government’s Security Cabinet discussed the possible consequences for the country of a general mobilisation in Russia. According to Michaela, the authorities are constantly monitoring the situation in the Russian Federation and preparing for various possible scenarios.
A potential mobilisation could alter the assessment of the threat level. When making a decision, consideration will be given to whether a mobilisation will be declared and, if so, what form it will take.
Restrictions and stricter controls are already in place at border crossings
The Police and Border Guard Department is ready to tighten security measures. Estonia It is already restricting entry by Russian citizens, and at certain border crossings it has reduced opening hours and stepped up customs checks.
The Koidula and Luhamaa road border crossings, as well as the Narva-1 pedestrian crossing, are open daily from 07:00 to 19:00. The country’s official crisis portal warns that certain border crossings may be temporarily closed at short notice due to migration pressure or security circumstances.
Full customs control for passengers travelling from Estonia to Russia via Narva, Luhamaa and Koidula, has replaced random checks. The Estonian side notes that this could reduce the route’s capacity by approximately half.
Tallinn anticipates possible migration pressure
Minister of Foreign Affairs Margus Tsakhkna believes that a general mobilisation in Russia could exacerbate internal tensions in the country and increase migratory pressure on Europe. The Estonian authorities are also discussing this scenario with other European states.
According to the minister, the Schengen Area countries issued around 650,000 visas to Russian citizens last year. A new wave of mobilisation, in his view, could increase the pressure on European countries.
Protection status will be considered on a case-by-case basis
Tsakhna emphasised that leaving Russia due to mobilisation does not, in itself, automatically constitute grounds for being granted international protection in Europe. Decisions regarding a person’s status will depend on the relevant legislation and the individual circumstances of each case.
Estonian legislation provides for the individual assessment of applications for international protection. Circumstances that may be of legal significance include the risk of persecution or being compelled to perform service linked to offences defined by law.
