Russia tightens restrictions near Estonian border; Tallinn ready to close it in case of mobilization

Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) border directorate for the St. Petersburg and Leningrad regions has announced a special regime in the Slantsy and Kingisepp districts, both located along the border with Estonia, running from September 16 to 26. The Kingisepp district borders the Narva River, with Estonia on the opposite bank.

What the restrictions cover

Until the end of the month, people are barred from being on the banks of the Narva River and from using small watercraft on a specified stretch of the river. Hunting and movement with firearms are also banned in the border zone. The strictest measure bars both people and vehicles from being outside populated areas within a five-kilometer strip along the state border during nighttime hours.

The FSB officially states the measures aim to prevent border and migration violations and to protect aquatic biological resources. The restrictions coincide with Russia's State Duma elections, running until September 20 in a tightly controlled political environment, the first parliamentary elections since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Estonian investigative journalist Holger Roonemaa suggested the real motive behind the restrictions could also be linked to preparations for a possible outflow of people from Russia.

Estonia's preparations

Estonia's government security committee this week discussed scenarios for a possible new general mobilization announced by Russia. Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna confirmed the government regularly assesses Russia's possible actions. Prime Minister Kristen Michal said Estonia is able to close border crossing points very quickly, even immediately, if necessary, with the specific response depending on the threat assessment and the type of mobilization Russia might declare. He noted that the Police and Border Guard Board and the interior minister are prepared for such a scenario. Officials believe a broad mobilization could increase tension inside Russia itself and create additional migration and security risks for neighboring countries.