Eight Latvian citizens were detained after an attempt to break into Threod Systems' property in Viimsi, north of Tallinn, on Saturday (November 14) morning to cause an explosion and set the building on fire. The company produces, among other things, long-range reconnaissance and attack drones. 

The Estonian Internal Security Service (KAPO) assesses that the attempted attack was carried out on the orders of Russia's military intelligence service, the GRU.

In August, an arson attack was carried out on Milrem Robotics, which is based in Tallinn.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Michal said he had discussed the possibility of closing the Estonian-Russian border with Minister of the Interior Igor Taro (Eesti 200) and had asked the minister and the Government Office to "prepare the necessary steps".

"If Russia continues its hybrid operations in Estonia, and we know that Russian intelligence services exploit border crossings to exert influence over people, we must be prepared to reduce the risks we face," he said.

"Closing the border would reduce the threat to people in Estonia and send a clear message that attacks on Estonia's defence industry and defense capabilities are unacceptable."

On the night of 14 November, GRU-ordered sabotage attempt targeted Estonian defence company Threod Systems. Extensive damage was averted thanks to heightened security measures and a swift reaction by law enforcement. The attackers have been detained. This is part of Russia's broader hybrid war against Europe, with the aim of decreasing support to Ukraine and pressure on Russia. We will not be intimidated. Estonia is preparing for the possibility of closing its border with Russia to reduce the risks to our people and national security.

— Kristen Michal (@KristenMichalPM) November 15, 2026

The prime minister said Russia is aiming to "make us afraid, make us hesitate and weaken our support for Ukraine. Estonia's response is the opposite."

"Estonia is safe and secure. Our state institutions are vigilant, and our people and businesses know how to respond. We will not be intimidated," Michal said.

Estonia has three open border crossings with Russia in Narva, Luhamaa and Koidula, which admit pedestrians and freight goods. The border crossings operate for 12 hours a day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The crossing at Narva is particularly busy during summer and the New Year period, as it is one of the only land crossings with Russia still open to travelers in Europe after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

--

Follow ERR News on Facebook and Twitter and never miss an update!