Russia Decides to Expel Estonian Ambassador and Downgrade Diplomatic Level to Charge d'Affaires

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Monday the downgrading of diplomatic relations between Russia and Estonia, in response to actions by Estonian authorities that are hostile to Russia. The Russian Foreign Ministry's statement said: "Estonian Ambassador M. Leider was summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry on January 23. He was handed a strong protest regarding the actions of the Estonian authorities." The statement added that "he was informed that he must leave Russia by February 7." The Foreign Ministry stated that "the leadership of Estonia has deliberately destroyed relations with Russia in various areas in recent years and is working to promote hatred towards Russia and cultivate animosity against our country, including in the political circles of the state."