Politics
AI
Estonia Honors Ukraine War Journalist, Scientist with State Decorations
Estonian President Alar Karis awarded state decorations to several individuals, notably honoring professor Tuul Sepp for her work in zoological ecology and journalist Roman Starapopov for his dedicated reporting on the war in Ukraine since 2022.
- —Estonian President Alar Karis has awarded state decorations to several individuals, including professor Tuul Sepp for her popularization of zoological ecology and journalist Roman Starapopov for his coverage of the war in Ukraine.
- —Professor Tuul Sepp received the Order of the White Star, IV Class, recognizing her extensive efforts in science communication through books, columns, public appearances, and podcasts, as well as her practical work in urban biodiversity.
- —Journalist Roman Starapopov, who has been covering the war in Ukraine since 2022 for Rus.Delfi, was also recognized with an order from President Karis, which he views as a recognition of his entire team's work.
- —Other recipients of state decorations include Vikerraadio editor-in-chief Janek Loot, radio journalist Arp Müller, Klassikaraadio music editor Kersti Inno, and ETV director Maire Radsin, with Müller and former 'Aktuaalne kaamera' editor Tiina Jaakson receiving the Order of the White Star, V Class.
Recap
The awards function as a clear statement of Estonia's national values, strategically elevating both science communication and independent journalism. Honoring a reporter for coverage of the Ukraine conflict serves as a geopolitical signal of support for a free press and reinforces the country's commitment to democratic principles amid regional instability.