Mariann Sudakov, a spokeswoman for the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told uudised.err.ee that the Estonian consul applied for a permit to be present at court but it was not granted.

Sudakov added that Estonian agencies continue to do everything in their power to have Kohver released as soon as possible.

"Kidnapping Eston Kohver from Estonian territory and detaining him in Russia is a preach of international justice," she said.

According to the Estonian Internal Security Service, Kohver was apprehended at gunpoint near Luhamaa border checkpoint on September 5 and taken to Russia. The kidnapping was preceded by jamming of communications and use of a smoke grenade; the interference was said to originate from the Russia side.