This world is shaped by irritating bloggers unknown to the general public, figures who have worked in semi-hidden cooperation with the Kremlin for years, and Russian politicians from the second (and sometimes first) tier of the Center Party who walk a fine line while exploiting the theme of ethnic discrimination. Their new angle is to embrace Trump's policies as potentially pro-Russian, in hopes that he will «put Estonia in its place.»
The risks have been taken
These decisions send the signal that Estonia's security policy has become bolder, more direct, and intolerant of ambiguity. The line between «us» and «them» has grown bolder, yet it remains crossable. In light of the justified existential threat posed by Russia, Estonia has chosen a course that is unafraid to risk provoking the anger of thousands of its own residents.
Strategically, to be frank, we do not really have much of a choice—we have to go all in. Otherwise, a repeat of 1939 and 1940 in a new form is highly likely.
On the one hand, this gives the state a stronger image and instills discipline. Some people will adapt to the new reality, some will withdraw further into private life. Some will move away.
On the other hand, the main risk of going all in is that, in my view, about one-third of Russian-speakers—who already live somewhat separately from Estonian reality—are now fully pumped up with fresh resentment and do not want to hear anything about Estonians' concerns. We may well see someone try to channel this into something very harmful, and it may happen at a critical moment—that is the greatest risk of all.