Russia is launching a propaganda campaign about the so-called «Narva Republic» in the Estonian city of Narva. According to media reports, Moscow may be preparing a hybrid scenario to destabilise the region. Narva is considered a potentially dangerous point because of its majority Russian-speaking population.
Russia's information campaign
Media outlets report that Russian propaganda has intensified around the topic of «protecting Russian speakers» in Narva. The idea of creating a so-called «Narva People's Republic» is being promoted.
According to sources, similar methods are used as those used in Donbas in 2014. Russian media and social media are spreading narratives about the «oppression» of Russian speakers in Estonia.
- Narva is a city on the border of Estonia and Russia.
- The majority of the population is Russian-speaking.
- Estonia is a member of NATO.
Possible destabilisation scenarios
Experts warn of the risk of hybrid actions by Russia. The scenario could include information attacks and attempts to organise pro-Russian rallies in Narva.
Any conflict in Narva would potentially mean a direct clash between Russia and NATO. This dramatically increases the risk of escalation in the region.
Context.
Russia has repeatedly used the theme of «protecting Russian speakers» to justify its aggression. Narva has long been seen as a potential point of destabilisation in the Baltic States.
Estonian authorities are stepping up security measures in the border regions. NATO Allies are closely monitoring the situation.
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