Estonia imposes full customs control on Russian border

Estonia has implemented full customs control at its border with Russia starting on Thursday, mandating inspections for all individuals and goods crossing the border. Previously, customs inspections were conducted selectively.

Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal said the move aimed to prevent the transportation of sanctioned goods through Estonia. Finance Minister Jürgen Ligi elaborated, noting that the goods included “many questionable items,” such as military or dual-use products.

“Third countries are often listed as the destination in declarations, but we do not trust that,” Ligi claimed, according to ERR. “Experience shows that these goods frequently stop en route, somewhere within Russian territory, before reaching their declared destinations, which are mainly in Asian countries.”

The Prime Minister also highlighted that customs officers would thoroughly inspect every individual and their luggage at pedestrian border crossings. For those crossing by car, both the vehicle and its contents will be examined. Bus passengers will undergo searches along with their belongings. These measures will apply at the Narva, Koidula, and Luhamaa checkpoints.

In related developments, Estonia has announced plans to construct a defensive line along its border with Russia, including the installation of 600 concrete bunkers, anti-tank barriers, and barbed wire fences. Construction is set to begin in 2025.