BRUSSELS: The European Union strongly criticized Russia’s removal of buoys marking the border with Estonia along the Narva River.
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell condemned the action as part of Russia’s ongoing pattern of provocative behavior and hybrid actions in the Baltic Sea region.
Estonia reported that Russian border guards removed the buoys in a predawn operation, exacerbating tensions that have escalated since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Disputes over the placement of the floating markers have persisted, with Russia contesting their positions. Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas characterized the incident as part of Moscow’s broader strategy to instill fear and anxiety using border-related tools.
Estonia’s foreign ministry labeled the move as a provocative border incident, stressing its unacceptability and demanding the immediate return of the buoys.
They affirmed ongoing communication with allies to address the issue.
