Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova criticized Estonia's amendments to the law on churches. She said these changes are contrary to human rights. According to the new amendments, religious organizations operating in Estonia must sever their ties with the Moscow Patriarchate.
Zakharova said that Estonia is deliberately destroying human rights and freedoms. She called the decision of the Estonian parliament aggressive and illegal. This decision obliges the Estonian Orthodox Church to sever its ties with the Russian Orthodox Church.
She added that the state has presented an ultimatum to religious organizations. It demands the severing of ties that have existed for hundreds of years. Zakharova called this discrimination on the basis of religion.
She said that the Estonian authorities have violated international obligations and the principles of a rule-of-law state. Zakharova also criticized the rhetoric of the Estonian government, which praises the amendments as a defense of national security.
Zakharova called on Estonia to abandon discrimination on religious grounds. She said she expects a response from international human rights organizations.
On Wednesday, the Riigikogu passed the law amending the law on churches and congregations. Its aim is to ensure that religious organizations are not used to incite hatred.
Ringo Ringvee, advisor on religious affairs at the Ministry of the Interior, said that Estonia does not violate the principle of freedom of religion enshrined in the constitution. He said that no one is prohibited from praying or forced to change their faith.