Commander of the Defense Forces Andrus Merilo said that the threat of war to Estonia has not increased. The entry of drones into Estonian airspace and the strike on the Auvere chimney are spillovers of Russia's war of aggression. This is a Ukrainian attack targeting the Leningrad region.
According to Merilo, some attack waves have also brought attack drones near Estonia's borders. Russian air defense has repelled them. GPS signal interference has been noticeable. Some drones have also entered Estonian airspace.
Some Ukrainian drones briefly entered Estonian airspace and quickly left. One drone hit the chimney of the Auvere power plant. The type of drone involved will be determined by the Security Police investigation.
The Defense Forces have initiated additional measures. Some units are outside their peacetime locations. They are carrying out detection and defense tasks.
In the near future, additional movements of defensive personnel may be seen. This is normal activity. The attack wave has not completely ended. Therefore, we must be prepared for new drone entries.
The Defense Forces are monitoring how the situation develops. They are ready to initiate additional measures. All actions are carried out in cooperation with allies. NATO air defense was very active last night.
The Estonian Defense Forces will not shoot down drones coming from Russia. This could cause escalation. The Defense Forces must ensure people's safety. If a drone is shot down, its debris could fall somewhere.
As soon as the threat subsides, it will be announced. The Defense Forces can return to their normal peacetime routine. Flying in Eastern Estonia may be restricted until Friday. This allows easier interception of flying targets.
Merilo believes something else is likely to happen. Threats have grown in recent years. These threats have entered a new phase.