• Tensions between Russia and its European neighbors have increased.
• Estonia announced to expel of the Russian ambassador from Tallinn.
• Russian ambassador will depart at the same time as his Estonian counterpart.

TALLINN: In retaliation for Moscow’s expulsion of the Estonian ambassador, Estonia announced on Monday that it would expel the Russian ambassador from Tallinn.

Since Moscow invaded Ukraine last year, tensions between Russia and its European neighbors have increased.

“We stand by the principle of parity in relations with Russia,” the Estonian ministry of foreign affairs said in a tweet sent in English, adding that the Russian ambassador would have to depart at the same time as his Estonian counterpart, ordered by Moscow to leave on February 7.

In a statement issued on Monday, Russia’s foreign ministry said it had downgraded diplomatic relations with Estonia, accusing the Baltic country of “total Russophobia.”

According to a statement from Moscow, the measures come after Estonia drastically reduced staff levels at Russia’s embassy in Tallinn.

“Russia’s steps will not deter us from providing continued support to Ukraine,” Estonian Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu said in a tweet following a tit-for-tat response from Tallin.

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