Estonian Traitor Seeks Early Release, Declares Opposition to Russia-Ukraine War
Translated from Estonian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Deniss Metsavas, serving a 15.5-year sentence for treason, is seeking early release under electronic surveillance.
- Metsavas, who teaches yoga and mathematics in prison, stated he opposes the Russia-Ukraine war and has a child and elderly mother awaiting him.
- He was arrested in 2018 for aiding Russia's military intelligence (GRU) by transmitting classified information over a decade.
Deniss Metsavas, convicted of treason and espionage, is petitioning for early release, having served half of his 15.5-year sentence. Metsavas, who is currently teaching yoga and mathematics in prison, appeared in court to argue for his freedom under electronic surveillance.
During the hearing, Metsavas explicitly condemned the war in Ukraine, stating, "I am categorically against the Russia-Ukraine war." He also highlighted his family ties, mentioning a child and an elderly mother who await him in freedom.
Metsavas was arrested on September 3, 2018, along with his father, Pjotr Volin. Both were accused of assisting the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation (GRU), Russia's military intelligence agency. Metsavas allegedly committed acts against the state for over 10 years, while his father's involvement was less extensive and primarily involved acting as a courier to deliver information in Russia.
His legal team is pushing for his release, citing his rehabilitation efforts within the prison and his stated opposition to the ongoing conflict. The court's decision on his request for early release under electronic monitoring is pending.
I am categorically against the Russia-Ukraine war.
Originally published by Postimees in Estonian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.