Estonia Deports Russian National Andrei Zhuravlyov
Estonia has deported a Russian citizen, Andrei Zhuravlyov, who is suspected of planning to gather intelligence for Russian security services. The decision to expel him was made at the request of the Estonian Internal Security Service (KaPo). According to Estonian broadcaster ERR, Zhuravlyov's activities were focused on carrying out tasks of interest to Russian intelligence, particularly in the Ida-Viru region. This action underscores the heightened vigilance of Baltic states regarding Russian espionage activities in the wake of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Reasons for Expulsion and Surge in Russian Munitions Production
The goal of the expulsion was to halt potential activities linked to Russian intelligence and to prevent threats to national security. Zhuravlyov was residing in Estonia on a residence permit but spent a significant amount of time in Russia. The Estonian Police and Border Guard Board carried out the deportation order.
Separately, the Estonian Foreign Intelligence Service has reported a massive increase in Russian munitions production. According to a report for 2026, since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, the output of shells in Russia has grown 17-fold. In 2025, Russian enterprises manufactured over 7 million artillery shells, mortar mines, and rockets, whereas in 2024 the figure was approximately 4.5 million. This data points to a significant ramp-up in the country's military industry, raising concerns among neighboring nations about Russia's long-term war-fighting capacity.
The deportation of Zhuravlyov is part of Estonia's broader strategy to ensure national security and counter potential threats associated with Russian intelligence.
The surge in Russian ammunition production further highlights regional tensions, with potential implications for the security of not only Estonia but also other Baltic states and Europe as a whole. These developments point to an intensification of military activity and espionage amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and its neighbors.