Estonia says Russia behind ‘sabotage’ attack on Ukraine defence supplier in Tallinn

Estonia has accused Russian security services of ordering an arson attack on defence company Milrem Robotics, which supplies unmanned ground vehicles to Ukraine.

According to The Guardian, a fire broke out on August 15 at a Tallinn building used by Milrem Robotics. Three Latvian suspects were later detained and handed over to Estonian authorities.

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said investigators had been able to “conclude with certainty” that the fire was “an act of sabotage ordered by the special services of the Russian Federation”.

He said the incident was part of a “broader campaign across Europe aimed at intimidating us and weakening our support for Ukraine”.

The Kremlin rejected Estonia’s allegations. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called them “unfounded, ill-considered, absolutely not reflecting the reality, not containing any substantiation whatsoever”.

NATO and European leaders expressed support for Estonia following the accusation. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said Russia “continues its reckless campaign of hostile actions against Nato allies”.

Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal said the country would respond with “stronger security at home, more support for Ukraine and greater pressure on Russia. We will not be intimidated.”

Estonia has summoned Russia’s chargé d’affaires over the incident.