The wording of a border treaty is a source of anxiety.

To "save face", preclude any demand for reparations, and promote Russian civil rights in Estonia, the devious Putin would probably like to base a treaty on the Soviet version of Estonia's incorporation into the Soviet Union; and, by accepting the present administrative border, Estonia may be conceding as much. A return to the traditional border, however, means more Russians in a country that may become overwhealmed by them as it is.

The leadership in Estonia needs the wisdom of Solomon, at this hour, (and I certainly can't see it in Rüütel.) I wonder if the best option isn't to ask for a treaty which includes no compromises. If this is unacceptable to Putin we'll continue as we have. What, after all, will a formal treaty substantially change?