Narva breakaway operation: Russians say Estonia shouldn’t exist

The security environment in the Baltic region is deteriorating as Russia intensifies hybrid operations against Estonia, including the promotion of separatist narratives in Narva. This escalation follows significant disruptions to Russian oil exports via Baltic ports due to Ukrainian strikes, prompting Moscow to seek the imposition of a security zone under the pretext of protecting Russian-speaking populations. Current maneuvers include airspace violations, maritime provocations, and the infiltration of combat-experienced individuals under civilian cover. In response, the Estonian government has issued a clear deterrent signal, authorizing the immediate use of lethal force against any incursion by irregular or conventional forces. These measures aim to preserve territorial integrity and signal NATO resolve against gray zone aggression.

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