An Estonian journalist conducted an experiment by offering assistance to the so-called 'Narva People's Republic', a initiative that many believe lacks seriousness and support. This project has emerged and quickly collapsed, reflecting a broader trend of virtual 'people's republics' that have gained attention across various countries. Despite attempts to drum up interest, data suggests that local residents in Ida-Virumaa have not shown a desire to join this separatist movement, indicating that it is largely ignored and discredited.

The journalist described the Telegram discussion group associated with the 'Narva People's Republic' as reminiscent of a séance, where little constructive communication takes place, yet there is a façade of intriguing activity. The lack of transparency within the group, alongside tactics that include daily message deletions and copying bans, suggests a struggle for credibility. Those managing the Telegram channel seem to acknowledge that while they are becoming known in different media, their attempts to generate interest are largely futile.

This situation highlights issues of credibility concerning separatist movements fueled by misinformation and foreign influence, specifically from Russian intelligence services. With a clear absence of local support and funding, the 'Narva People's Republic' is positioned as a disorganized attempt to leverage local dissatisfaction, but effectively fails to resonate with the community it purports to represent, leading to questions about the viability of such initiatives in Estonia and their implications for regional stability.