Statement on Provocations on the EU border between Estonia and Russia

As delivered by Chargé d’affaires a.i. Knut Are Okstad at the Permanent Council, Vienna, 30 May 2024

Thank you, Madame Chair,

Norway fully aligns with the statement of the European Union. Let me add the following remarks in my national capacity.

Norway stands in close solidarity with our Nordic and Baltic partners. We firmly support our neighboring countries against any provocative actions intended to create confusion and instability - particularly concerning maritime boundary issues in the Gulf of Finland and Baltic Sea.

The Russian Federation’s unilateral removal of over 20 light buoys from the Narva River, placed by Estonia to demarcate the border with Russia, is unacceptable. We echo the demand for an explanation and their immediate return.

These incidents are part of a broader pattern of provocative behavior and hybrid actions by Russia, which are unacceptable. We remain committed to working in unity with our Nordic and Baltic partners to uphold peace and stability in the region.

I thank you.