The Estonian government has unveiled a new drone roadmap designed to enhance counter-drone capabilities, streamline testing regulations, and accelerate the adoption of drone technology across both defense and the broader economy.

The Sõru Maritime School on Estonia's Hiiumaa island is teaching children essential knowledge about sailing, sea behavior, and safety, with high interest from applicants.

As Estonia enters a busy summer event season, consumer protection officials are reminding ticket holders of their rights regarding refunds and options if an event is canceled or postponed.

An outbreak of bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) on a farm in Pärnu County, Estonia, has resulted in the deaths of eighteen cattle.

Two people were killed in a collision involving a truck and a passenger vehicle in Kehtna, Rapla County, Estonia, on Friday afternoon.

Estonia's governing coalition is on a crash course as Eesti 200 leader Kristina Kallas refuses to back down from the party's stance on making family benefits means-tested, a move aimed at saving €100 million annually.

Estonia plans to transition to a cost-based pricing model for periodical home delivery starting in 2029, fundamentally altering the funding structure for print distribution in the country.

Raimond Kaljulaid cautioned that the interests of large European countries, particularly the E3 initiative for political dialogue with Russia, might not align with Estonia's, despite support from Finland and Ukraine.

The City of Tallinn is commissioning street art to transform an underpass on Pärnu maantee, with a committee established to review designs for the large-scale project.

Estonia's Riigikogu is set to pass amendments to the Prosecutor's Office Act, which will limit the prosecutor general's term in office to a single consecutive seven-year period.

The sale of assets belonging to the bankrupt Estonian dairy company E-Piim Tootmine commenced on Wednesday. Production units located in Paide, Põltsamaa, and Järva-Jaani are scheduled for public auction in August.

The City of Tallinn has moved the Estonian and Ukrainian flags displayed on the building at Freedom Square 10 onto scaffolding due to upcoming renovation work, with plans to return them if the war has not ended.

Tallinn has installed its first modular bomb shelter in a public urban space, located in the green area at Juhkentali 10. This marks Estonia's initial step in placing such shelters in city centers.

An Estonian coalition MP, Kalle Laanet, has joined opposition MPs from Isamaa in sending a letter to the Interior Minister seeking clarification on the oversight mechanisms for surveillance agencies.

A new battery energy storage system (BESS) plant planned for Valga County in rural Southern Estonia will exclusively use European-made core technologies, a notable choice in a sector often dominated by Chinese equipment.

Estonia's Education and Youth Board (Harno) is launching a nearly €1 million initiative to engage and support troubled young people through popular social media platforms like TikTok and online games such as Roblox.

A memorial ceremony was held at the European Parliament in Brussels to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the USSR's mass deportations, which saw tens of thousands of Estonians, Latvians, and Lithuanians sent to Siberia and Kazakhstan.

Estonia's Riigikogu has passed amendments allowing the country to rent out prison space to foreign nations, with a vote on a prison agreement with Sweden also scheduled.

Estonia's Isamaa party is intentionally prolonging Wednesday's parliamentary session, which has several important bills on its agenda, including prison outsourcing and the consent law.

Tallinn Mayor Peeter Raudsepp stated that using architects for city building projects creates excessive costs and that standardized solutions should be adopted instead.

Juhan Kivirähk criticizes the Estonian Prime Minister, alleging that the PM is preventing Parliament from fulfilling its duties, particularly concerning a vote on freeing hens from cages.

A 15-year-old student in rural Estonia is driving herself to school in a moped car, allowing her to gain independence years before the standard driving age of 18 in the country.

Tallinn Social Democrats are proposing to make city museums free for children and teens aged 18 and under. The proposal is set for city council debate.

According to a Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) fresh economic report on Estonia, the country should tighten its budget and reform taxes.

Estonia has begun allowing longer truck combinations on specific routes with special permits. This initiative aims to improve freight efficiency and alleviate driver shortages in the country.

Estonian ministers are expressing criticism over a plan to simplify divorce procedures, arguing that it could compromise the safety of domestic violence victims and children, while the Minister of Justice asserts the goal is to better protect victims.

An expert highlights that the risk of tick-borne encephalitis may be greater in urban areas than in forests, challenging the common perception that ticks are primarily a rural problem in Estonia.

Estonian Chancellor of Justice Ülle Madise stated that trail cameras, while useful for wildlife, must be handled with the same surveillance regulations when they capture images or footage of people.

A memorial stone has been unveiled at the site of a Lääne-Viru County engagement where four members of the Forest Brothers successfully fended off a significantly larger Soviet force.

Estonia's government has submitted a draft law to parliament that would prevent parents with undetermined citizenship from refusing Estonian citizenship for their children if it would result in the child being stateless.

Tallinn is planning to construct separate and safe bicycle paths along the entire length of Tehnika tänav. The project also includes a full reconstruction of the Endla tänav and Paldiski maantee intersections.

Kaarel Tarand writes in a commentary that the Estonian legislature is undermining societal trust as it prepares for war, suggesting a search for a censor.

Police in Estonia warn that non-profits and apartment associations are particularly vulnerable to phone and internet fraud due to inadequate oversight of financial transactions.

Following complaints about aggressive seagulls in Estonia, an expert suggests wearing a hat with a pom-pom as an effective way to protect oneself from bird attacks.

Estonia's Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications has introduced a new action plan aimed at promoting equal opportunities for sexual minorities and individuals with diverse gender identities.

Lavly Perling, chair of the Parempoolsed party, stated at a party council meeting that Estonia needs to reduce the state's role in people's lives and cut taxes to stimulate economic growth.

Tallinn's Pirita District plans to spend up to €20,000 this spring and summer to combat invasive Spanish slugs, as local governments intensify efforts to control the pest's spread.

A major hospital in Tallinn has dismissed longtime women's clinic head Piret Veerus, citing a serious patient safety breach and false statements, though Veerus denies the allegations.

The Estonian Riigikogu is expected to vote on a bill requiring warning signs before mobile speed cameras, likely passing it before the midsummer break.

Thousands of medical experts from NATO countries will participate in one of the alliance's largest medical exercises in Estonia throughout June.

Estonia's Finance Minister Jürgen Ligi announced that the country will not utilize the European Commission's proposed relaxation of fiscal rules, despite the option being offered due to rising energy prices.

Estonia's Chancellor of Justice, Ülle Madise, has affirmed the constitutionality of the country's decision not to grant citizenship to Ukrainian nationals who are unable to renounce their original nationality due to the ongoing war.

The Valga Hot Shorts (VHS) film festival is set to return to the twin border city of Valga, Estonia, from July 3–5. The event will feature a packed lineup of over two dozen short films and various events across town.

Estonian Chancellor of Justice Ülle Madise has stated that local governments are not obligated to subsidize private kindergarten attendance if a child has access to a public kindergarten.

Manufacturing output in Estonia fell for the third consecutive month in April, while the creditworthiness of Poles also worsened for the third month in a row. These trends indicate a sustained economic downturn in both countries.

Estonia's right-conservative EKRE party leader Martin Helme, the sole candidate for party chairman, downplayed a recent poll slump and expressed hopes for a 'kingmaker' role in the next election.

The number of people on waiting lists for special care homes in Estonia has doubled over the past six years, prompting the Ministry of Social Affairs to request an additional €200 million for new places and higher wages.

The Central Criminal Police have concluded an investigation into Riigikogu member Lauri Läänemets' expense allowances, clearing him without charges after finding no evidence of a crime.

A birdwatcher in western Estonia reported a rare sighting of a vulture this week, according to local reports.

The Estonian Rescue Board intends to allocate €1.3 million over the next two years to campaigns aimed at enhancing public crisis preparedness and promoting safe behaviors related to water and fire safety.

Estonia's Minister of Defense, Hanno Pevkur, stated that the country has no clear information regarding future rotations of US troops, following similar reports from Lithuania.

Estonia is considering changes to its immigration law that would allow up to 2,600 foreign workers annually to address labor shortages during periods of economic growth.

Marja-Liisa Veiser writes that Estonians should not be ashamed of their flag and have reason to be proud of their country and freedom, supporting Tallinn's decision to erect a large flagpole on Pirita tee.

The 'Youth Narratives' exhibition at Kadriorg Gallery in Tallinn showcases the work of emerging artists, offering fresh perspectives on contemporary life through their personal stories.

Estonia's state budget for the previous year, totaling €19.5 billion, saw nine percent, or €1.75 billion, remain unspent, which is several hundred million euros less than the €2.1 billion recorded the year before.

Prosecutors in Estonia have sent a criminal case to court, charging six individuals with the beating and murder of a man in Valga, South Estonia, which occurred in April.

Nearly a third of Tallinn's municipal schools are requesting to begin the school day before 9 a.m. for the upcoming academic year, contrary to a Ministry of Education regulation.

Tallinn Airport recorded its highest-ever monthly passenger traffic in May, serving over 354,000 passengers and marking a 13 percent increase year-on-year.

Electric vehicle manufacturer Polestar has announced its expansion into the Baltic region, with launches planned for Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

Estonia's Ministry of Justice plans an amendment to clarify rules for data collection from smart devices and email accounts, aiming to prevent the exposure of private information unrelated to criminal cases through overly broad searches.

A study by researchers at the University of Tartu indicates that the rapid spread of cormorant colonies on small Baltic Sea islands significantly reduces the diversity of other nesting bird species, based on long-term data from Estonia's coastline.

Estonia is experiencing higher property insurance premiums due to significant increases in construction and renovation costs, as well as the rising expense of replacing home furnishings and appliances.

An attempt by two opposition factions in the Tallinn City Council, the Social Democrats and Parempoolsed, to pass a no-confidence motion against the mayor failed on Tuesday.

Eight concrete antitank obstacles, known as dragon's teeth, were brought to Värska for local children to decorate with chalk during a community-wide Children's Day event.

Jaap Ora, Estonia's former ambassador to Kazakhstan, has initiated legal proceedings against the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to contest his dismissal from office.

The Riigikogu, Estonia's parliament, is considering new legislation to introduce restrictions, such as a 'cooling off' period, for senior public sector officials transitioning to the private sector.

Fresh off the passage of Estonia's consent law, Social Democrats (SDE) are pushing to criminalize the nonconsensual creation and spread of sexually explicit deepfake images.

Estonian defense experts are warning that U.S. plans to reduce military assets in Europe could create significant capability gaps, despite assurances that NATO plans remain intact.

Estonian officials conducted a four-day cleanup effort on Lake Peipus, successfully removing nearly 500 abandoned and illegal fishing nets. The initiative aimed to clear the lake of long-lost gear.

A hazardous waste incineration plant in Tartu has significantly expanded its capacity, aiming to handle up to 20,000 tons annually to address a national shortfall in disposal options.

City officials in Tartu have drafted a comprehensive strategy to manage the city's evening and nighttime economy until 2035, aiming to balance urban vibrancy with business interests and residents' quality of life.

Fast-moving thunderstorms brought heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds to Southern Estonia on Thursday evening, with unconfirmed reports of a possible tornado in Võru County.

Estonia's Ministry of Climate has stated that mining and quarrying phosphorite in the country is not economically viable in the near future. This decision effectively halts any plans for phosphorite extraction for the foreseeable future.

Statistics Estonia data indicates that residents entered into fewer marriages and more divorces in 2025 compared to 2024, with 5,998 marriages, including 139 same-sex unions.

ERR News presents 'Lihtsad uudised' (Simple News), a weekly broadcast designed for individuals looking to improve their Estonian language skills, featuring a selection of news stories.

The Tallinn City Council concluded its final regular session before the summer recess, lasting 14 hours and 17 minutes, making it likely the longest session in the council's history.

A new analysis commissioned by the Foresight Center suggests that platform couriers and ride-hailing drivers in Estonia would likely be classified as employees in legal disputes.

EKRE chairman Martin Helme's unsuccessful effort to appoint a political ally to a key position in Viljandi may result in a deputy mayor in the town losing her job, according to Sakala.

Scientists from Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) have conducted the first test of a micro-autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) in the Baltic Sea to explore areas inaccessible to conventional instruments.

Estonian lawmakers in the Riigikogu have approved legislation to establish a nationwide credit register. This new system aims to provide lenders with a clearer view of borrowers' existing loans.

An exercise in Paldiski, Estonia, involved around 600 personnel rehearsing responses to a mass civil unrest scenario, including evacuation and crisis coordination.

The Estonian Rescue Service is requesting residents to provide feedback by the end of the week regarding the impact of the nationwide EE-ALARM public warning system test conducted on Wednesday.

Architect Toivo Tammik issued a warning that Tallinn would face significant challenges if tens of thousands of people suddenly required shelter, highlighting the city's lack of preparedness for such a large-scale emergency.

The Riigikogu, Estonia's parliament, has approved a new 'consent law' which establishes that clear and explicit consent is required for sexual relations.

Estonia's 79 municipalities have been testing Starlink terminals since last month as part of their crisis preparedness efforts.

A survey revealed that students in Estonia perceive the AI-based learning application ITI, developed for the national education system, as both "really annoying" and possessing significant potential for their learning experience.

A significant quantity of sodium hypochlorite leaked from a truck on Õismäe tee in Tallinn's Haabersti district on Wednesday morning. Emergency services responded to the report of the chemical spill.

Estonia's foreign trade experienced a notable increase in April, with exports of goods rising by 13 percent and imports by 12 percent year-on-year, according to Statistics Estonia.

The City of Tallinn announced it will increase school lunch funding to €2.10 per day starting September 1, aiming to maintain meal quality amidst rising costs.

Prosecutors have charged a man with attempted murder following an explosion that occurred at the Ülemiste keskus mall in Tallinn just before Christmas last year.

A new atlas of Estonian mammals indicates that large predators are expanding their ranges across the country, while several smaller species have experienced sharp declines or vanished.

The City of Tallinn and Estonia's Ministry of Education are considering a major overhaul of the capital's school network, including expanding state-run high schools, with final decisions contingent on national budget funding.

Maarja Vaino emphasizes that history, along with language and customs, defines a people and is essential for a small nation to understand its identity.

Estonian and Finnish researchers suggest that modern crisis communication can benefit from plague mythology, noting similarities between plague legends and communication about environment-related health crises.

The old buildings of Estonian Public Broadcasting (ERR) in Tallinn are being demolished to make way for a completely new residential and commercial quarter, which will include a new pedestrian and bicycle street.

Estonian writer Jüri Kolk argues that a mentality tolerating violence persists in Estonia, with a significant portion of society siding with perpetrators.

The Supreme Court of Estonia has rejected President Alar Karis's request to declare amendments to the Churches and Congregations Act unconstitutional. The decision was made by a majority of 17 justices, with six dissenting.

The remains of an Estonian Olympic wrestling champion from the interwar era have been reburied on Saaremaa, after being brought back from Sweden.

The Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant Toko in Tartu, Estonia, is slated for demolition to make way for the new Siuru cultural center, with construction expected before summer 2028.

Growth in electricity storage capacity in Estonia is leading to smaller price differences between peak and off-peak hours, reducing excess renewable energy generation and keeping prices above zero.

Tartu's official Midsummer celebration is set to take place on June 23, offering a day-long festival outside the Estonian National Museum with folk traditions and live music, including a performance by Puuluup.

The Baltic Pride march filled the streets of Tallinn with crowds, flags, and banners on Saturday, concluding a week-long celebration of LGBT+ visibility, community, and support.

Tallinn's Old Town will experience extra traffic and access restrictions, including a no-fly zone, on June 8 and 9 for the Nordic-Baltic cooperation meeting hosted by Estonia.

"Lihtsad uudised," meaning easy or simple news, provides a resource for individuals looking to improve their Estonian language skills. It offers a selection of the week's news stories in an accessible format.

The Estonian Parliament has passed amendments to current legislation, granting doctors the ability to prescribe prescription medications for themselves.

New prognoses warn of a powerful El Niño phenomenon on its way, predicted to intensify and spread globally with devastating speed, though it is unlikely to directly affect Estonia's summer weather.

A special €2 coin dedicated to the beloved Estonian children's character Sipsik was released, drawing long lines of collectors at the Bank of Estonia.

The new director of Tallinn University's Baltic Film, Media and Arts School, Ivo Lille, states that AI must be integrated into curricula in a way that safeguards creativity and critical thinking.

Trail camera footage from Viljandi County, Estonia, captured a bear cleverly ransacking a hunters' feeding site, challenging the adage about bears' wits.

The mother of a missing child has appealed to the justice chancellor, alleging that police shared details with the media before informing her.

Estonia's Ministry of Finance will limit access to information about beneficial owners. This data will only be available to authorities requiring it for their duties and to individuals who can demonstrate a legitimate interest.

Estonia's spring 2026 art auction season generated nearly €3 million in sales, with the market characterized by consistent demand for works by several key artists.

A collective agreement signed by Estonia's Ministry of Education and EHL will raise the minimum salary for state school teachers to €2,070, while other teachers will continue to receive a minimum salary €100 lower.

President Alar Karis has appointed Hannes Hanso, Estonia's current ambassador to China, as the next ambassador to the United States.

Police in Estonia are increasing the use of 'cool-down stops,' offering speeding drivers a 45-minute break as an alternative to fines, with about 90 such operations planned nationwide.

A surreal standoff between rival administrations in Narva, Estonia, highlights deeper problems within local democracy, voter engagement, and political accountability in the city.

Tallinn has terminated the design contract for the planned Lasnamäe medical campus, incurring a cost of €3 million, due to a lack of clear funding from the state.

Estonian police located a French father and his 1-year-old child who had been missing since May 29, but are reportedly refusing to disclose the child's whereabouts to the mother.

Construction of the Estonian Defense Force's new base in Narva, located on Estonia's eastern border with Russia, is set to commence later this year. Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur confirmed the plans during a visit to Ida-Viru County.

A new master's thesis suggests that Estonia's digital backbone, heavily reliant on international connections, could lead to the paralysis of its financial sector if undersea cables in the Baltic Sea are damaged.

Jaap Ora, the former Estonian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, stated that his dismissal from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was legally invalid and did not align with his wishes, calling the ministry's actions unacceptable.

The Estonian Media Union has announced its intention to appeal the country's new wartime reporting restrictions. Media outlets in Estonia are objecting to the law, arguing it limits press freedom during conflict.

Estonia's Center Party parliamentary group has initiated a no-confidence motion against Finance Minister Jürgen Ligi, citing his 'incapable' handling of economic policies and rising food prices.

Air threat alerts were issued across Estonia after multiple drones breached the country's airspace, though the Estonian Defense Forces later confirmed the danger had passed.

An investigation into an alleged bear attack in Estonia, where a man claimed he was dragged from his bicycle, has concluded with no evidence found to support the claims.

Starting September 1, Estonia will no longer recognize Russian-issued non-biometric diplomatic and service passports for EU border crossings and visa applications.

Estonia's court system experienced a significant increase in caseloads, longer processing times, and a decline in public trust in 2025, according to the President of the Supreme Court.

Tallinn has approved a detailed plan for the redevelopment of its Central Market and surrounding area. The project includes the construction of a new main market building and new mixed-use buildings featuring commercial spaces and apartments.

Estonian Justice and Digital Affairs Minister Liisa Pakosta stated that the national government has limited ability to intervene in a local government's affairs, even when a governance crisis has emerged in Narva.

According to a preliminary estimate by Statistics Estonia, the harmonized consumer price index in May increased by four percent compared to the previous year and by 0.9 percent compared to April.

The opposition in Narva City Council elected new city leaders during a self-convened session on Monday, though coalition council members maintain the session was illegal, potentially delaying the transfer of power.

Estonia's Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs is planning to implement a system where court summons and fine notices could be sent through the Health Portal or other state digital systems to improve enforcement.

Banks in Estonia are implementing an enhanced version of the Smart-ID authentication system. This upgrade introduces additional security steps for users, specifically designed to counter common scam tactics.

Political analyst Martin Mölder suggests that Estonia's opposition parties are likely to secure an easy victory in the upcoming elections, but this could lead to difficulties in governing later on.

An agreement has been signed between Estonia and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (SMOM) to advance SMOM's hospitaller and healthcare activities in Estonia.

While the purchasing power of pensions in Estonia has increased and is projected to continue growing, the main challenge remains whether they can keep up with the living standards of working-age individuals.

Two education experts in Estonia stated that studying controversial topics in history lessons helps schoolchildren differentiate facts from propaganda.

Experts suggest that increasing investment in R&D-intensive businesses and fostering greater openness to innovation could help Estonia address its growing public debt and restore economic growth.

The Estonian Business and Innovation Agency (EIS) is seeking a partner to develop its digital services and self-service platform, earmarking up to €4.6 million over three years.

Estonia will consolidate nearly one million loans, leases, and debts into a national credit register by 2029, but officials have decided that data will only be accessible when a formal loan application is made.

A new drone testing area in Tartu will bring a safe space for flying, development and experimentation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).

A wave of spa and spa hotel projects is spreading across Estonia's tourism and hospitality sectors as developers respond to cautious consumers and changing travel habits, leading to a significant boom in the spa industry.

Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna has reiterated calls for a complete ban on alumina exports from the European Union to Russia, citing ongoing shipments from countries like Ireland.

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) has proposed ending its contract with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications (MKM) for developing online occupational health and safety courses, citing significant differences in views.

A small bog island in Southern Estonia's Emajõe-Suursooo marshland is blanketed in blooming Siberian irises, offering a unique sight for visitors who undertake the watery journey.

The onset of spring in Estonia has shifted notably earlier over the past 50 years, though the precise extent of this change varies depending on the climate norm used for estimation.

An Estonian concert promoter reports that rising costs, tighter personal finances, and increased price sensitivity are negatively affecting attendance at summer events in the country.

Multiple regions experienced widespread power outages, affecting parts of Abuja and Nasarawa in Nigeria, as well as Tartu and South Estonia.

The agricultural sector in Estonia, including berry growers, is struggling with increasing labor shortages for both seasonal picking jobs and more skilled agricultural positions.

Both coalition and opposition politicians in Estonia have stated there are no plans to link the country's child benefit system to income, indicating broad opposition to means-testing.

Plans to install mussel and seaweed farms in Haapsalu Bay have been postponed by a year due to failed procurement processes and unsuitable equipment for the bay's shallow waters.

Estonian agricultural museums are planning to bury cotton underwear at three locations on June 16 to evaluate soil health by measuring the decomposition rate of the fabric, which indicates underground biological activity.

The first-ever Paavli Festival in Tallinn attracted nearly 1,000 visitors and over 40 artists during its weekend run.

Estonian Railways (Eesti Raudtee) and Elron will conduct a nationwide exercise on Wednesday, stopping trains to practice their response to a drone attack with passengers on board.

First-year architecture and urban planning students from the Estonian Academy of Arts (EKA) have constructed a new landmark in Tartu, titled 'Varem' ('Before'), focusing on the life cycle of structures.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a warning to Estonia, stating that the country's public debt is on an unsustainable path if current trends continue.

Over 60 handmade scarecrows from across Estonia are on display at the Heimtali Museum in Viljandi County, giving old textiles a colorful new purpose.

Estonian lawmakers are proposing an amendment that would grant the Riigikogu (parliament) the ultimate authority on whether a nuclear power station can be built in the country.

A €10 million spa complex, featuring family and adults-only areas, is scheduled to open in Tallinn's Ülemiste City in 2028, with construction set to begin next year.

The Prosecutor's Office plans to make a procedural decision this summer in the investigation concerning the Isamaa party, aiming to avoid its timing coinciding too closely with parliamentary elections in the spring.

Estonia's interior minister stated that the Estonian Orthodox Christian Church must sever its subordinate ties to the Moscow Patriarchate, following a Supreme Court decision upholding amendments to the churches law.

Estonian chess player Mai Narva has qualified for the Women's World Cup after securing 10th place at the European Women's European Championship in Batumi, Georgia.

Estonia's police chief has issued a warning against attacks on officers, noting an increase in incidents where 'teeth flash often,' following a high-profile case involving a judge who allegedly bit an officer.

Vex, a paragliding shepherd dog, shared the limelight with NATO jets at a Tartu County airshow over the weekend, drawing significant attention.

A dispute has arisen between the Roman Catholic Church and the Estonian Health Insurance Fund regarding whether foreign nuns temporarily residing in Estonia are entitled to state health insurance.

Martin Helme has been re-elected as the chairman of the Conservative People's Party of Estonia (EKRE), reaffirming his leadership of the right-wing opposition party.

Estonian surgeon-turned-wildlife photographer Ilmar Kaur emphasizes that animal behavior and timing, not just luck, are crucial in capturing compelling shots that tell stories.

Researchers and the State Forest Management Center in Estonia are collaborating on a tree breeding program designed to cultivate tougher and more rapidly growing trees for the nation's future forests.

The Tartu city government has approved a detailed plan for a new urban district, including a proposed six-story police and border guard headquarters, to address space shortages.

Estonia's Eesti.ai initiative has secured an €11 million boost, though project lead Kirke Maar stated that no immediate economic impact will be reflected in financial indicators this year as the program is still in its launch phase.

Plans for a new Estonian Defense Forces (EDF) base in Narva are facing complications due to local political infighting, which is jeopardizing a crucial land deal.

A historic Estonian presidential flag, smuggled out in 1944 to save it from Soviet forces, has returned home from Australia and was handed over to the Estonian National Museum.

The recent firing of a respected gynecologist has brought to light issues of staff overwork and critical shortages at a Tallinn hospital, prompting an appeal from medical personnel.

Statistics Estonia reported that the consumer price index (CPI) in Estonia increased by 3.7 percent year-on-year in May 2026.

A new study from Estonia indicates that many AI systems can still be influenced by propaganda-style prompts, with varying results across models and languages.

The state Labor Inspectorate in Estonia has expressed support for a government bill that would permit minors aged 16 and 17 to serve alcohol in restaurants and cafés. This move signals a softening of previous regulations regarding youth employment in the hospitality sector.

Approximately 200 children in Pärnu, Estonia, participated in a water safety day, learning essential skills for staying safe in and around water, responding to emergencies, and assisting others in distress.

The Estonian Defense Forces (EDF) demolished an aging bridge in Järva County, central Estonia, as part of a training exercise.

A new exhibit at a museum near Tartu offers visitors a glimpse into a recreated Soviet-era cafeteria, showcasing everyday dining culture from decades past.

The Parempoolsed party leader criticized the Center Party and Isamaa's actions in Tallinn, stating they mirror the Reform Party's national policies of blanket subsidies and free handouts.

The eighth Tallinn Architecture Biennale, running from September 9 to November 30, will feature Linnahall as the central focus of its curated main program.

An attack drill was held at Estonian Public Broadcasting's news building as part of the larger-scale security exercise Ilves 2026.

A significant amount of harmless algae was removed from Tartu's Anne Canal in Estonia this week. The cleanup was conducted in preparation for the summer swimming season.

Estonia's Interior Minister stated that long queues at the Narva border crossing are a direct consequence of Russia's war against Ukraine and increased customs inspections.

Estonia is constructing hundreds of new ammunition storage facilities across the country as part of one of its largest national defense projects to date. This initiative aims to significantly boost the nation's defense capabilities.

The Nature House in Tallinn, Estonia, set to be the country's largest public timber building, is scheduled for completion in fall 2026. The Natural History Museum within the complex is expected to open in 2027.

Maj. Gen. Indrek Sirel, commander of the Estonian Defence Forces Division, stated that developing drone capabilities is only a small fraction of what the defense sector needs, following the recent Spring Storm exercise.

Starting June 1, Estonian residents can use the Eesti app for digital identity verification during police checks, aiming to streamline the process and reduce reliance on physical documents.

Starting September 1, Estonia will no longer recognize Russian-issued non-biometric diplomatic and service passports for crossing EU borders or for visa processing.

A large patchwork rainbow banner was unfurled in Tartu's Town Hall Square as part of the ongoing Baltic Pride events across Estonia.

The City of Tallinn anticipates that its business incubator will operate more effectively after relocating to newly refurbished offices that cost several million euros.

Tallinn recently hosted the HeadRead literary festival, which featured author talks, literary walking tours, and special music events across the capital.

Thousands of rubber ducks filled the Kadriorg Park canal in Tallinn for the annual Duck Race, an event dedicated to raising funds for children with cancer and their families.

President Alar Karis hosted a reception to honor all Estonian athletes who competed in this year's Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.

A study by the Estonian Human Rights Centre reveals that 53 percent of Estonia's population supports same-sex marriage, but support is significantly lower among the non-Estonian-speaking population.

Average monthly gross wages and salaries in Estonia stood at €2,135 in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 6.2 percent increase year-on-year, as reported by Statistics Estonia.

Children's Jazz Festival Kräsh Returns to Tallinn