Estonian court sentences Israeli citizen for spying for Russia’s FSB

An Estonian court has sentenced Israeli citizen Anatoly Privalov to six years and six months in prison for spying against Estonia on behalf of Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), concluding that he supported intelligence activities targeting the country’s national security for nearly a decade.

The Harju District Court ruled that the events described in the plea agreement occurred and that the agreed-upon sentence appropriately reflects the severity of the crimes. Time spent in pretrial detention will be counted toward Privalov’s sentence, starting from October 12, 2025, the day he was taken into custody. He was also ordered to pay €2,215 in procedural fines, ERR reports. 

According to prosecutors, Privalov, 50, established ties with Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) and its officers as early as 2016. Authorities said he passed requested information and materials to support intelligence operations via electronic communications and during in-person meetings in Russia.

Prosecutors stated that the Narva resident supplied intelligence concerning Estonian and allied law enforcement and security agencies, as well as state defence facilities. He also allegedly provided information about individuals who could potentially be recruited for covert cooperation in Russia’s interests.

Authorities further accused Privalov of involvement in acts of sabotage and migration-related attacks.

In 2025, investigators said, he attempted in cooperation with the FSB to help Andrei Ševljakov — who was wanted by the FBI and detained in Estonia at their request — escape to Russia.

Business records show that Privalov is the beneficiary of Sillamäe-based Ofala OÜ, a road freight company that reported €7,163 in revenue for 2024. He was also a member of the Beenuar building association in Sillamäe.

By Sabina Mammadli