Kapo's struggle against Russian-Israeli businessman: I am not an FSB agent!
Sergei Uger, a Russian businessman residing in Israel and owner of a major mineral water factory, insists he is not an FSB agent after the Estonian security police (Kapo) revoked his e-residency due to suspicions regarding his interests in Estonia.
Sergei Uger, primarily living in Israel, is the owner and director of a significant mineral water factory in Russia. He has publicly declared that he is not affiliated with the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), responding to actions taken by Estonia's security police (Kapo) regarding his operations in Estonia. Uger's e-residency was revoked by Kapo based on information suggesting he might be promoting Russian interests in the country, yet Kapo has not disclosed specific details regarding those suspicions, leaving Uger frustrated about the implications of this decision.
On February 23, Uger attended a local meeting in Väimela, Võrumaa, where he aimed to explain his plans to build a mineral water factory in the region. However, shortly after this public engagement, Estonia’s Interior Minister Igor Taro disclosed in parliament that Uger's e-residency status had been deemed invalid as of December 30, 2025, due to Kapo's findings. The details surrounding this decision remain undisclosed, and despite Uger's efforts to clarify his intentions locally, the security concerns seem to overshadow his business proposals.
Uger's claims reflect a broader tension in Estonia concerning Russian nationals and their activities, especially in light of geopolitical issues and security risks in the region. As residents and officials grapple with these complexities, Uger's case illustrates the challenges faced by foreign investors in Estonia, especially those with connections to Russia. His situation raises questions about the balance between national security and economic engagement, as Estonia navigates its relations with neighboring countries while ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.