Estonia implements full customs control at border with Russia

The Estonian government has familiarized itself with the plan developed by the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of the Interior, which envisages a gradual transition to full customs control of all people and goods crossing the border with Russia.

Michal emphasizes that Estonia must do everything possible to stop the transportation of sanctioned goods and strengthen the country's security.

“Attempts at sanctions evasion and the transport of banned goods across our borders are, unfortunately, ongoing, as is the brutal war Russia has launched against the Ukrainian state and people. By implementing full controls on goods, we can make it more difficult for Russia to evade sanctions and supply its war machine,” the Prime Minister says.

He adds that local governments, cargo carriers, and bus companies had been informed of the changes. For those crossing the border on foot, full customs control will mean inspection of each person and their luggage.

The government has also indicated that the introduction of full customs control, along with selective controls, will increase border crossing times and likely lead to a reduction in the number of people crossing the border.

The decision to introduce full customs control is the result of a preliminary discussion of measures to strengthen customs control on the Estonian-Russian border that took place on July 4.

Russians are denied right to buy housing in Estonia

Earlier, Estonian Interior Minister Lauri Läänemets said that Tallinn intended to change the law to prohibit Russian citizens from buying real estate in locations that are strategically important to the country.