Estonia Temporarily Closes Border Crossings with Russia Amid Security Concerns
Estonia will temporarily close the Koidula and Luhamaa border crossing points with Russia overnight, beginning , in response to a series of border incidents and what the government describes as “irrational” behavior from the Russian side. The closures will remain in effect for three months.
The decision, announced on Thursday, aims to allow the Police and Border Guard Board (PPA) to reallocate personnel to enhance border surveillance and security, according to Interior Minister Igor Taro (Eesti 200). “This represents not about saving money in an Excel spreadsheet. We are working to strengthen border surveillance and enhance border security,” Taro told evening news show “Aktuaalne kaamera” on Saturday.
Several incidents prompted the move. Minister Taro cited an incident on the Vasknarva pier, where Russian officials crossed the Estonian state border. Prior to that, there was a notable incident in the Saatse Boot area, requiring action from Estonian authorities.
Despite the closures, officials emphasize that border crossings will remain accessible during daytime hours. PPA’s Peter Maran stated, “Since traffic volume is low, people who need to travel to or from Russia will still be able to cross the border. The service is not disappearing.” The checkpoints will close at 7 p.m. And reopen at 7 a.m. The following morning.
Impact on Transportation
The nighttime closures are expected to most significantly affect coach companies. Lux Express, for example, operates a Tallinn to St. Petersburg route that utilizes the Luhamaa crossing. Ingmar Roos, CEO of Lux Express Group, explained that evening departures crossing the Luhamaa checkpoint will be cancelled, impacting approximately 300 passengers who will be contacted regarding alternative arrangements.
Freight transport has already been substantially curtailed due to existing sanctions. However, the closures also raise concerns for companies providing services at the border crossings.
Financial Concerns for Border Service Providers
Railservis, which provides waiting area services at the Koidula crossing, fears potential financial difficulties if vehicle traffic decreases further. Aleksei Mürisep, a board member of Railservis OÜ, expressed concern that the reduced operating hours could lead to unsustainable traffic levels. “If it is closed at night, will only five vehicles cross the border instead of eight or 10? We are constantly on the edge. At some point, we may simply terminate the contract and say sorry, we cannot do anything. We do not have the means to pay our employees,” Mürisep said.
Coordination with Latvia
Estonia has coordinated its decision with Latvia to prevent Russia from circumventing the security measures. According to Minister Taro, the coordination ensures that Latvia will not increase capacity at its checkpoints if Estonia reduces traffic flow on its side, thereby ensuring Russia feels the impact of the action. “We have coordinated with them to ensure that if we reduce the bottleneck on our side, they won’t increase capacity at their checkpoints, so that Russia cannot avoid feeling the impact of our action,” Taro stated.
The move comes after a period of heightened tension and increased fortification along the Baltic borders, including the installation of new gates on the Friendship Bridge, following attempts by irregular migrants to cross the border.