The outrageous situation around Sputnik, a Russian news agency, in Estonia is raising serious concerns.

It seems that the official Tallinn considers it a matter of principle to shut down this Russian news agency. The local Police and Border Control Department are sending letters to the employees of Sputnik’s Estonian office, threatening them with criminal prosecution. In addition, it is stressed that those who have any information on individuals and legal entities connected to Sputnik but won’t report it to the money laundering office may also be prosecuted.

Thus, in their persecution of the Russian news agency, the Estonian authorities have adopted such totalitarian methods as intimidation of its employees and partners.

This situation is unacceptable and is beyond the fundamental democratic principles and Estonia’s international commitments to ensure free operation of the media, freedom of speech and equal access to information.

We urge the specialised international institutions and human rights non-profit organisations to respond immediately. Above all, we expect a statement on this case from OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Desir.