In Estonia, Pavel Kapustin, a citizen of the Russian Federation, was sentenced to 6.5 years in prison for espionage on behalf of the FSB, violating sanctions, and providing false information to Estonian authorities. This information was released by the Estonian State Prosecutor’s Office.
The court also decided to confiscate Kapustin’s property, valued at approximately 90,000 euros, which was deemed illegally acquired.
The investigation established that Kapustin maintained active contact with the Russian FSB intelligence service, passing on important information, including details about the situation in the border city of Narva.
Among the transmitted data were the sentiments of the local population following the dismantling of the Soviet T-34 tank, as well as reactions to Yevgeny Prigozhin’s rebellion.
In addition to espionage, Kapustin organized a scheme for the illegal export of sanctioned goods from the EU to Russia. This involved luxury items, alcohol, and electronics. He also provided false information during the residence permit application process.
According to data from the Estonian security service KaPo, Kapustin passed on information to the FSB about border infrastructure, resident movements, and logistics. He trained locals on how to bypass customs control using methods such as repackaging and false explanations about the origin of goods.
KaPo specialists warn that Russian intelligence services are actively trying to recruit individuals crossing the border and recommend avoiding travel to Russia unless absolutely necessary.