Russian Professor Arrested in Estonia on Espionage Charges

Vyacheslav Morozov, a professor at the University of Tartu, is suspected of conducting intelligence activities for Moscow. His arrest is part of a broader pattern of Russian intelligence infiltration in Estonia.

Vyacheslav Morozov, a Russian professor at the University of Tartu in Estonia, has been arrested on suspicion of spying for Moscow. The Estonian Internal Security Service launched an investigation into Morozov's alleged involvement in intelligence activities that undermine Estonia's national security. The specifics of Morozov's alleged intelligence activities have not been disclosed.
Morozov, who previously worked at Saint Petersburg State University, one of Russia's renowned academic institutions, has been in custody since January 3. The Estonian Prosecutor's Office issued an arrest warrant to prevent him from evading criminal proceedings and continuing to commit offenses.
The arrest of Morozov is part of a broader pattern of Russian intelligence services attempting to infiltrate various areas of Estonian life, including the scientific sector, according to Margo Palloson, Director General of the Estonian Internal Security Service.
Morozov's contract with the University of Tartu has been terminated following the charges. He had worked as a professor of European Union-Russia studies between 2016-2023 and as a professor of international political theory from January 1, 2023, until his detention.
In Kazakhstan, police have detained 10 protesters who were demanding justice for their relatives killed during anti-government protests in January 2022. The protesters were found guilty of violating regulations on holding public events and each fined 77,000 tenges ($170).