Estonian court reduces treason sentence for Russian-linked arsonist and spy
A court in Estonia has reduced the prison sentence of Andrei Makarov, a man convicted of treason and arson. The Tartu District Court lowered his term from 15 to 13 years after reviewing his case. The ruling can still be challenged through an appeal process. Makarov was initially found guilty of passing sensitive information to Russian officials. He had shared details about allied military movements and equipment in Latvia. The court also confirmed his involvement in filming a military convoy in the same country.
In early 2024, Makarov carried out another act of sabotage under Russian instruction. He set fire to a car belonging to Ukrainian refugees in Tartu. Before the arson, he placed a KOOS party sticker on the vehicle and left a note demanding Ukrainians leave Estonia.
The court, however, dismissed some charges related to incidents in Poland and Lithuania. These were not considered acts of high treason against Estonia. Additionally, the state was ordered to cover around 2,000 euros of Makarov’s legal fees. The revised sentence now stands at 13 years, though the decision remains open to appeal. Makarov’s convictions include treason for sharing military intelligence and arson targeting refugees. The court’s ruling clarifies which of his actions were deemed criminal under Estonian law.
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