Relations between Tallinn and Moscow have further deteriorated in recent hours. After the announcement on Monday morning of the expulsion of the Estonian ambassador from Russia, Tallinn responded with a similar measure, and Riga also announced the dismissal of the Russian ambassador.
The explanations of our regional correspondent, Marielle Vitureau
In recent years, according to Moscow, Estonia has only deteriorated relations with its Russian neighbor. Last straw to break the camel’s back: the recent expulsion of thirteen Russian diplomats and eight technical employees from Tallinn. Moscow therefore responded by expelling the Estonian ambassador.
The Russian decision is a blow for the latter. Interviewed by public radio, he regrets that the charge d’affaires who will remain in post in Moscow cannot have access to the same sources. However, they are more than necessary in times of war.
To respond to Russia, Estonia has therefore decided to do the same. The Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs has asked other European countries to also apply the principle of parity.
#Estonia takes note of today’s decision by Russia to reduce diplomatic presence to the level of charge d’affaires.
We stand by the principle of parity in relations with Russia, which means that the Russian Amb. will leave at the same time as the Estonian Amb. to Russia.
— Estonian MFA ?? | ? #StandWithUkraine (@MFAestonia) January 23, 2023
The number of people employed in Russian diplomatic representations abroad is often disproportionate, noted the head of Estonian diplomacy. The call has been heard by neighboring Latvia, which has also just announced the dismissal of the Russian ambassador.
Since the start of the war, the three Baltic countries have stood together. A matter of security.
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