The FSB in Russia imposed a 10-day curfew and movement restrictions on September 16-26, 2026, in the Slantsy and Kingisepp border districts along the Narva River opposite Estonia, ostensibly to protect aquatic biological resources but clearly aimed at preventing mass exits during Russia's Duma elections and possible mobilization. The restrictions include bans on riverbank visits, small boat usage, hunting, and night-time movement within 5 km of the border. Concurrently, Estonia is preparing potential closure of border crossing points with Russia amid rising tensions and anticipated Russian mobilization. Estonian authorities, including Prime Minister Kristen Michal, indicate closures could be imminent to manage border security and avoid chaos. Estonian Minister of Defence Martin Herem warns of a possible Russian military threat against Estonia within a year, using a "6+6 month" logic tied to the Ukraine conflict's dynamics. Additionally, tensions between Estonia and Ukraine arise due to Ukrainian MP Arseniy Pushkarenko's attempts to influence Estonian reconstruction aid in Ukraine’s Zhytomyr region, leading Estonian officials to caution against engagement with him. The situation reflects heightened hybrid and military tensions in the Baltic region amid Russia's internal and external pressures.

The FSB in Russia imposed a 10-day curfew and movement restrictions on September 16-26, 2026, in the Slantsy and Kingisepp border districts along the Narva River opposite Estonia, ostensibly to protect aquatic biological resources but clearly aimed at preventing mass exits during Russia's Duma elections and possible mobilization. The restrictions include bans on riverbank visits, small boat usage, hunting, and night-time movement within 5 km of the border. Concurrently, Estonia is preparing potential closure of border crossing points with Russia amid rising tensions and anticipated Russian mobilization. Estonian authorities, including Prime Minister Kristen Michal, indicate closures could be imminent to manage border security and avoid chaos. Estonian Minister of Defence Martin Herem warns of a possible Russian military threat against Estonia within a year, using a "6+6 month" logic tied to the Ukraine conflict's dynamics. Additionally, tensions between Estonia and Ukraine arise due to Ukrainian MP Arseniy Pushkarenko's attempts to influence Estonian reconstruction aid in Ukraine’s Zhytomyr region, leading Estonian officials to caution against engagement with him. The situation reflects heightened hybrid and military tensions in the Baltic region amid Russia's internal and external pressures.