Subscribe Menu

Kremlin narrative sneaks into Estonian online discourse

Picture this: Three well-spoken Estonians in an online podcast lamenting the political destruction of Estonia and the social decadence the current coalition government is promoting.

Their self-confidence and their ideological absolutism reflect a deep commitment to a cause. The podcast called ‘American Voice’ was from a website called ‘EESTI EEST!’, the online, USA-based portal of EKRE. The name ‘EESTI EEST!’ portrays a vigilant, pro-Estonian image.

But when a framed photo of Mr. Trump is seen on the wall behind the host of the podcast, one’s established perception of ‘EESTI EEST!’ is confirmed – that it’s a typical far-right Internet portal that professes an existence of a ‘deep state’, calls COVID-19 vaccinations a conspiracy of the profit-hungry pharmaceutical industry, rejects main-stream media, etc.

It’s interesting to note that a few generations ago, pictures of Päts, Tõnisson and Laidoner were displayed out of respect and as a memorial to them as victims of Communist repression. Mr. Trump, now re-branding himself as a victim, gets similar recognition.

Become a subscriber to continue reading!

Every week we bring you news from the community and exclusive columns. We're relying on your support to keep going and invite you to subscribe.

Starting from $2.30 per week.

Go to Subscription Plans

Read more