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Estonia Detains Blogger Oleg Besedin on Suspicion of Anti‑State Activity and Sanctions Violations

Investigators say he supplied content to sanctioned Russian outlets to support Kremlin influence operations.

Overview

  • Security police detained Besedin in Tallinn on November 4 on suspicion of non‑violent activity against the Estonian state and breaching European Union sanctions.
  • KaPo alleges he worked since at least 2022 with people acting in the interests of Russian intelligence to enable interference in Estonia’s internal affairs.
  • A colleague said police searched Besedin’s home, reported finding unspecified items, and that his YouTube channel and the Facebook group Tallinnlased were blocked.
  • If convicted, he faces 2 to 15 years in prison for the anti‑state offense and a fine or up to 5 years for violating international sanctions.
  • Estonian public broadcaster ERR first reported the detention, authorities say the investigation is ongoing, and no conviction has been reported.