Russia ordered arson attack against Milrem Robotics in Tallinn
The Estonian government stated that the arson attack against Milrem Robotics' building in Tallinn on 15 August was sabotage ordered by Russian intelligence services. Three suspected Latvian nationals have been extradited to Estonia.
Milrem Robotics arson attack: government names Russia as the client
Through ERR News, the Estonian government released a press statement confirming that the arson attack carried out against Milrem's building in Tallinn on 15 August was sabotage ordered by Russian intelligence services.
"Today we can state with full certainty that the arson attack against Milrem that took place on the night of 15 August in Estonia was sabotage ordered by the intelligence services of the Russian Federation," said Prime Minister Kristen Michal. "The Estonian Internal Security Service (KAPO) reached this conclusion following a thorough analysis of the information gathered."
Michal added that this is part of a broader Russian operation in Europe, the aim of which is to intimidate Europe and compel it to reduce support for Ukraine and pressure on Russia. "Such actions are completely unacceptable and irresponsible," said the Prime Minister, emphasising that this also reflects Moscow's growing desperation in a situation where Russia has failed to achieve its aggression objectives in Ukraine.
"The Estonian state is able to protect its security. Thanks to our strong security and law enforcement agencies, the environment in Estonia is extraordinarily difficult for carrying out such operations against us, and similar activities have also been prevented in the past," said Michal.
Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna (Estonia 200) confirmed that Estonia's response is precisely the opposite of what Russia wishes to achieve. "Together with our allies and partners in Europe and elsewhere, we are increasing pressure on Russia, tightening sanctions and seeking additional opportunities to restrict travel by Russian citizens to Europe. We will continue and strengthen our comprehensive support for Ukraine."
KAPO Director General Margo Palloson warned that the threat from Russia of provocations and sabotage persists. "Russian intelligence services continue attempts to recruit and influence people in Europe, including for the purpose of sabotage. Organisations that contribute to supporting Ukraine and defence industry companies are under elevated threat level," said Palloson, recommending the strengthening of security measures.
"Estonian security agencies are closely monitoring Russian activities and are working closely with both Estonian companies and international partners to prevent such incidents," added Palloson.
Criminal investigation continues to clarify the precise circumstances of the incident. Preliminary information from criminal proceedings also confirms that the attack was ordered. The suspects who apparently carried out the arson directly have been detained and pose no further threat.
On the night of 15 August, a fire broke out at a building used by Milrem Robotics on Betooni Street in Tallinn, in the Lasnamäe district. The rescue service responded immediately and the fire was extinguished quickly. No lives were endangered.
On 17 August, two Latvian nationals were detained in Latvia, suspected of carrying out the arson. A third suspect was detained the following day. In searches of locations associated with the suspects in Latvia, numerous data carriers and items were seized that could have been used to set fire to the building.
On 17–18 September, Latvia extradited all three suspects to Estonia.
Milrem Robotics supplies THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles to Ukraine.
Source: ERR News