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Sputnik Media ex-editor’s detention in Estonia a sign of cynicism — Russian MFA

"Such excesses of the Estonian ‘secret police’ are yet another manifestation of cynicism of Tallinn that, under the guise of protecting national security, is attempting to settle scores with unwanted independent activists," Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said

MOSCOW, December 16. /TASS/. The detention of Allan Huntsom, the former editor for Sputnik Media, by the Estonian police is a manifestation of cynicism by Tallinn that seeks to fight unwanted activists, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement posted on the ministry’s website.

The diplomat pointed out that on the day of Huntsom’s detention, "it was decided to arrest him for two months as a restrictive measure." "According to available information, he is reportedly charged with ‘intelligence activities against Estonia’ and with ‘maintaining ties with Russia’," Zakharova said.

"Such excesses of the Estonian ‘secret police’ are yet another manifestation of cynicism of Tallinn that, under the guise of protecting national security, is attempting to settle scores with unwanted independent activists, who, despite the security services’ harsh pressure, continue to show their willingness for pragmatic cooperation between our countries," the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman noted.

In addition, Zakharova emphasized that in such a way, Estonia was trying "to please its Western handlers through total ‘purges’ of the dissent and by inciting Russophobic sentiment."

"Obviously, media pluralism and journalists’ legitimate rights bother the Estonian political leadership solely in the terms of disseminating provocative insinuations against Russia," the diplomat concluded.

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