According to Foreign Minister Marina Kaljurand, Estonia strongly condemns the judgement rendered by the Pskov regional court on August 19th, on Eston Kohver as well as the entire trial.

“The abduction of Eston Kohver from the territory of the Republic of Estonia by the FSB on 5 September, and his unlawful detainment in Russia thereafter, constitute a blatant breach of international law,” said Kaljurand. “Today’s judgement does not change our position. We call on Russia to immediately release Eston Kohver,” emphasized the Foreign Minister.

Kaljurand added that there has been no fair administration of justice in the proceedings concerning Eston Kohver. “Our consul was not allowed to be present at the hearings and Eston Kohver was deprived of adequate legal aid,” said Foreign Minister Kaljurand. “We demand that Russia act by its international obligations, release Eston Kohver and guarantee his safe return to Estonia."

According to Foreign Minister Kaljurand, Estonia is very grateful to its allies and partners who have supported Estonia and raised the issue of Eston Kohver in international organizations and bilaterally with Russia. “Together with our allies and partners, we intend to keep up international pressure until Eston Kohver is released and has returned home to his family,” she added.

On August 19th, the Pskov regional court rendered a judgement of conviction against Eston Kohver and sentenced him to 15 years in prison. In a mark of protest, diplomats from the Estonian Embassy and the European Union delegation in Moscow were present at the pronouncement of the judgement.   

PRESS DEPARTMENT

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