Sharp accusation: Russia behind arson attack in Europe
Estonia accuses Russia of being behind an arson attack on a defense company in Tallinn that supplied vehicles to Ukraine. The prime minister said the attack was ordered by Russian intelligence services. The suspects, Latvian nationals, were arrested and extradited. The French president and NATO secretary-general responded.
Estonia accuses Russia of being behind an arson attack on a defense company in Tallinn that supplied unmanned military vehicles to Ukraine. Prime Minister Kristen Michal said the attack was ordered by Russian intelligence services. Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna added that based on gathered information, it can be concluded with certainty that the arson attack was an act of sabotage ordered by the intelligence services of the Russian Federation. Estonian Security Service chief Margo Palloson said Russia is constantly seeking opportunities to carry out attacks, and the arson attack was its first successful one this year. Three suspects, Latvian nationals living in Russia, were arrested in Latvia and extradited to Estonia. French President Emmanuel Macron said the doubling of such hostile acts represents a dangerous escalation by Russia. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte called on European governments to remain calm and continue supporting Ukraine. Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the accusations as baseless.