Skip to main content
Archived edition · October 08, 2026 Today's news →

What's happening in Europe?

Flag of Estonia

Estonia

News summary for

Go to today →

Magnesium 🪨

Government secures EU sanctions exemption for Russian magnesium plant

Estonia successfully lobbied for the removal of a Russian magnesium plant and its director from a new package of European Union sanctions. This diplomatic effort, confirmed by multiple news outlets, represents a significant development in the country's engagement with international sanctions policy.

Domestically, the Climate Ministry, currently headed by Minister of Energy and the Environment Erkki Keldo, made a last-minute decision to withdraw a bill that would have drastically altered the electricity market. This unexpected move signals a significant shift in energy policy discussions.

In other notable events, a Viljandi family accused of slavery was found to possess a substantial hoard of 200 kilograms of gold and 28 million euros in cash. Additionally, the Tallinn Circuit Court overturned a previous ruling, ordering Meelis Eskola, known as DJ Cityflash, to serve actual prison time for rape, rather than a suspended sentence.

Top stories

Estonia Secures EU Sanctions Exemption for Russian Company

Estonia successfully requested the exclusion of a Russian company and its leader, identified as a magnesium plant and its director, from new European Union sanctions. This move, reported across several Estonian news sites, highlights Estonia's active role in shaping international sanctions.

Climate Ministry Withdraws Major Electricity Market Bill

The Climate Ministry, led by Minister of Energy and the Environment Erkki Keldo, has unexpectedly withdrawn a bill that was poised to significantly restructure the electricity market. The last-minute withdrawal signals a halt to major proposed changes in the energy sector.

DJ Meelis Eskola Ordered to Serve Prison Time for Rape

The Tallinn Circuit Court has overturned an earlier ruling, ordering Meelis Eskola, also known as DJ Cityflash, to serve actual prison time for rape. This decision means the three-year prison sentence, previously suspended, will now be enforced.

Drunk Drivers Offered Alternative Punishment for Reduced Drinking

A new approach to drunk driving cases sees individuals, such as a driver with a 3.4 promille blood alcohol content who crashed into a tree, being required to prove reduced alcohol consumption instead of facing immediate traditional punishment. This signals a shift towards rehabilitation in certain cases.

News sources