Russia is conducting influence operations in Estonia with the help of individuals holding dual citizenship. According to the Estonian Security Police, those with dual citizenship who have been recruited by Russia pose a significant threat to national security. Authorities are considering amending the law to revoke the citizenship of such individuals, but this would require changes to the Constitution, ERR reports.
It is estimated that around 10,000 Estonian citizens live in Russia, who can easily cross the border and whose background and activities are difficult to verify. Harris Carpenter, head of the Estonian Security Police Bureau, stated that recently Russian intelligence services have shown interest in recruiting dual citizens to carry out tasks aimed against Estonia.
“There are currently about 10,000 people who hold both Estonian and Russian citizenship, which technically shouldn’t be the case. But it’s a complex situation, and we know that there are no easy solutions. This issue is clearly on the agenda now due to Russia’s aggressive efforts, and there’s much to consider,” Carpenter said.
“In cooperation with the prosecution, we have detained and prosecuted these individuals for various crimes against Estonia,” the Security Police emphasized.
Janek Mägi, head of the Border and Migration Policy Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, announced that one proposed amendment to the Citizenship Act is currently under consideration. It would grant the police and the Border Guard the right to demand a DNA test from an individual applying for citizenship if there are suspicions.
“The acquisition and revocation of citizenship by birth have been on the agenda multiple times in cases involving traitors. In reality, this requires a serious political discussion. To strip someone of citizenship acquired by birth or to consider someone a citizen by birth, constitutional changes are necessary,” Mägi said.
Politicians agree that the threat from Russia is increasing, but a detailed analysis of the issue and thorough discussion of possible measures are needed. Social Democrat Raimond Kaljulaid noted that strengthening security measures also requires increased personnel and financial resources to combat the growing Russian threat.
