Estonia to reinforce borders with Russia via installation of new barricades at EU's external frontier
Estonia Bolsters Border Security at EU-Russia Frontier
Estonia has reinforced its external border security with the installation of new border security measures at key crossings with Russia, specifically at Narva, Koidula, and Luhmaa. These measures include folding gates, retractable metal barriers, concrete blocks, and roadblocks.
The new infrastructure is part of Estonia's efforts to bolster its border security, following concerns over potential migrant influx and the smuggling of sanctioned or prohibited goods. A significant trigger was an incident in late 2023 when Russia allowed around 30 migrants to leave without proper documentation to enter Estonia.
The total cost of these enhancements amounts to approximately €3.1 million. The work on these border security measures began last month.
Peter Maran, from the Estonian Police and Border Guard, stated that an influx of migrants at the borders can never be completely ruled out. The new security measures are intended to quickly prevent illegal border crossings and manage potential future incidents of migrant influx.
The retractable gates and road barriers are designed for rapid response to potential migration influxes and illegal crossings. They can be closed within seconds to halt pedestrian and vehicle traffic. The measures also include full customs controls on outbound routes to Russia to prevent the transfer of sanctioned goods.
The decision to install these new security measures was made due to the influx of migrants at Estonia's borders. The recent events at the Finnish-Russian border might have influenced Estonia's decision to bolster its border security. However, the specific reason for the installation of these new security measures is not explicitly stated, but they are likely a response to geopolitical tensions with Russia.
Previously, concrete blocks had been placed as barriers at these border crossings. The new installations mark an upgrade in Estonia's border security infrastructure.
These new security measures were reported by an Estonian broadcaster. The statement by Peter Maran emphasizes the importance of physical infrastructure in managing border security. The new measures aim to safeguard Estonia's territorial waters from unauthorized incursions and address migration pressure and security risks from the Russia-Estonia border, as part of Estonia's role as a NATO and EU external frontier.
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