Estonian court sentences man for arson attack ordered by Russian intelligence

In Estonia, an arson attack occurred at the Slava Ukraina restaurant and a supermarket, which were targeted by Russian intelligence services in January 2024. The Harju County Court announced that the attack was part of a series of operations designed to destabilize Western societies and disrupt support for Ukraine amid ongoing tensions stemming from Russia's invasion. Two cousins, both named Ivan Chihaial, were charged, with one receiving a sentence of 6 1/2 years for being the main perpetrator and the other sentenced to 2 1/2 years as an accomplice. The court found that the first Chihaial had completed a trial operation prior to the restaurant attack. He ignited a similar fire at another supermarket, which led to his subsequent orders from Russian military intelligence, known as the GRU. Unbeknownst to him, his cousin acted in assistance. This highlights a worrying trend in which Russian security services are resorting to enlisting foreign nationals to carry out such acts, as officials believe recruitment efforts within Russia are failing due to increasing scrutiny. The Estonian Internal Security Service has indicated that these incidents demonstrate the lengths to which Russian intelligence will go to achieve its goals, including the use of Moldovan nationals as operatives. This incident is not an isolated case, as various types of attacks have been documented across Europe, ranging from vandalism to cyberattacks, aimed at sowing discord amongst countries allied with Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin's spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, has categorically denied any allegations regarding the Kremlin's involvement in a broader sabotage campaign, dismissing claims made by Western officials. These events culminate the challenges faced in the region thanks to Russia's prolonged aggression and have raised national security concerns in Estonia and beyond.