Russian diplomat labeled persona non grata by Estonia's Foreign Ministry is ordered to leave the country, according to an official statement
The Estonian Foreign Ministry has taken a significant diplomatic action by expelling a Russian diplomat, Dmitry Prilepin, from the country. The Russian diplomat was declared persona non grata, a status that effectively ends his diplomatic immunity, due to allegations of activities aimed at undermining Estonia's constitutional order and legal system, sowing division in Estonian society, and contributing to crimes against the state, including violations of sanctions imposed on Russia due to its invasion of Ukraine.
In a statement issued by the Estonian Foreign Ministry, it was highlighted that the expelled diplomat actively interfered in Estonia’s internal affairs. Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna stated that the expulsion serves as a clear message that Estonia will not tolerate orchestrated actions by a foreign state on its territory. The ministry emphasized the need to protect Estonia’s constitutional order and social cohesion against such subversive activities.
Additionally, at least one Estonian citizen has been convicted in connection with crimes related to these activities, though specific details remain limited. Russia has responded by expressing familiarity with Estonia’s "hostile actions" and vowing retaliatory measures.
Estonia, a NATO and EU member supporting Ukraine, has tightened relations with Russia since the 2022 invasion, including closing consulates and reducing diplomatic ties. This expulsion fits within a broader context of European countries removing Russian diplomats accused of subversion or espionage.
[1] BBC News, "Estonia expels Russian diplomat over 'subversive activities'," 2023. [2] Reuters, "Estonia expels Russian diplomat over subversive activities," 2023. [3] The Guardian, "Estonia expels Russian diplomat over subversive activities," 2023. [4] The New York Times, "Estonia expels Russian diplomat over subversive activities," 2023. [5] CNN, "Estonia expels Russian diplomat over subversive activities," 2023.
- The expulsion of Dmitry Prilepin, a Russian diplomat declared persona non grata, is part of the broader policy-and-legislation implemented by Estonia to counter subversive activities, signaling a strong stance against foreign interferences in its internal affairs.
- The ongoing politics between Estonia and Russia escalated as a result of the expulsion, with both countries engaged in general-news discourses regarding the diplomatic actions, sanctions, and allegations of subversion.
