Estonia deports Russian citizen over suspected espionage plot

Estonia, on February 11, deported Russian citizen Andrei Zhuravlev following a recommendation by the country’s Internal Security Service (KaPo), which suspects him of preparing to engage in intelligence gathering, Estonian media reported on February 12, citing a KaPo statement.

According to KaPo, individuals operating in the interests of Russian intelligence services intended to use Zhuravlev to collect intelligence in Ida-Viru County. The agency indicated that such efforts could be linked to preparations for hybrid attacks.

KaPo said the decision to expel him was aimed at disrupting the activities of Russian intelligence services and averting potentially serious consequences.

Zhuravlev had been living in Estonia under a residence permit, although he spent most of his time in Russia. The deportation was carried out by the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board.

By Tamilla Hasanova