Feb 7 • 14:00 UTC 🇭🇷 Croatia Večernji List

Alarm in Europe over Putin's veterans? 'In our imagination, criminals are terrifying killers, but...'

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna warns that after a potential ceasefire in Ukraine, Russia could send hundreds of thousands of former soldiers, including convicted criminals, to disrupt Europe.

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has raised serious concerns over the potential influx of former Russian soldiers into Europe following any ceasefire in Ukraine. In an interview with The Telegraph, conducted during the EU foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels, he estimated that Russia currently has almost a million fighters, with around 640,000 still actively serving. After the cessation of hostilities, many of these individuals could head to Europe with alarming intentions rather than for legitimate reasons such as work or taxes.

Tsahkna emphasized that Russia and President Putin have already been using various means to create chaos in European societies. He warns that a peaceful resolution in Ukraine might lead to the arrival of these individuals, many of whom are described as 'former prisoners and rapists', highlighting the potential threat they pose. As the conflict continues, the implications of a sudden peace could result in greater instability within Europe, compounded by the activities of these individuals who have a history of violence.

This statement comes at a time when tensions in Europe are high, partly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine and the fear of hybrid warfare that could be employed by Russia. The potential for a large-scale movement of individuals with violent backgrounds into European countries raises alarms not only for national security but also for public safety, making it imperative for EU nations to prepare for such scenarios should a ceasefire emerge.

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