Estonia Detects Smuggling of Sanctioned Goods and Starlink Systems to Russia

Despite stringent customs controls at its eastern EU border with Russia, Estonia continues to detect attempts to smuggle restricted goods, including microchips and Starlink satellite communication systems, into Russia, reported Estonian media Handelsblatt on December 16.

Since the start of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the European Union introduced 14 sanctions packages aimed at limiting Russia’s access to critical technology and financial resources. However, attempts to smuggle prohibited goods, such as drones, chips, electronics, and Starlink systems, remain a significant concern.

Eerik Purgel, an official with the Estonian Police and Border Guard Authority, revealed the ongoing violations in the border town of Narva.

“A major issue is the attempted transport of cash. Every day, we still see tens of thousands of euros trying to find their way into Russia, hidden in people’s luggage,” Purgel said.

In response to these violations, Estonia implemented stricter customs checks at the Narva, Koidula, and Luhamaa border crossings, replacing the previous risk-based random inspections.

Purgel defended the measures, calling them “highly justified” to act both effectively and as a deterrent against smuggling attempts.

On December 6, reports emerged that Ukraine will begin testing new Estonian-developed Mark 1 surface-to-air missiles designed to counter drones.