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ConflictsEstonia

Estonians on island concerned about Russia's proximity

05:46

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September 5, 2025

NATO is conducting training exercises in the Baltic Sea for a reaction to a potential Russian attack. The Estonian island of Hiiumaa lies directly on the shipping route between the Russian city of St. Petersburg and the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad.

On Estonia’s Baltic Sea island of Hiiumaa, NATO troops train for potential Russian aggression as locals brace for rising tensions. Speech therapist Ave Ungro joins the Naiskodukaitse, Estonia’s women-led defense group, reflecting a growing civilian commitment to national security. Amid airspace violations and suspected sabotage, solidarity and preparedness define Estonia’s response.

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