Baltic countries face growing threats from Russia
For two years, in the Baltic countries, we have been living to the rhythm of the war in Ukraine and its repercussions.
Around ten people, linked to Russia, were arrested at the start of the week for having acted against Estonia, by damaging a minister's car.
What is clear to the Balts is that Russia is not going to stop at Ukraine.
Russia launched wanted notices on February 13, 2024 against at least three officials from the Baltic countries and three Poles, including Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, here at the Élysée on October 18, 2023. via REUTERS - POOL
By: Marielle Vitureau
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From our correspondent in Vilnius
,
The Estonians estimate that they still have three to four years ahead of them to strengthen their defense system and prepare for a possible conflict with Russia.
This is what the intelligence services note: “
The current reform of the Russian army assumes that Russia is considering a possible conflict against NATO in the next decade
.”
The armies of the three Baltic countries are therefore modernizing at a rapid pace.
In
Estonia
, the creation of a division is well advanced.
In Lithuania, a German brigade will be deployed by 2027. What we also notice is the military cooperation which is strengthening between the three countries.
They decided in January to build a defense line running along the 600 kilometer border along Russia.
Read also Ukraine: the Baltic countries reaffirm their unwavering support for Zelensky, on tour in the region
Unwavering support for Ukraine
The repercussions of this war are the aid to Ukraine which does not weaken.
And it’s protean.
Latvia has just launched an initiative
to
deliver drones to Ukraine.
But there are also countless private projects to deliver medical aid, dog food, school supplies, etc.
On the diplomatic level too, Ukraine's interests almost come before national interests.
For example, in his annual foreign policy speech to parliament, the Estonian minister spoke almost exclusively about Ukraine, laying out an eight-point plan to ensure his victory.
Also read Latvia: Dojd, the Russian channel in exile which is fighting for its license
A retreat against Russia
The other repercussion is a maximum distancing from Russia and this affects very diverse areas.
This is, for example, the cessation of teaching in Russian in Latvia and Estonia.
In
Lithuania
, some Orthodox priests seceded and joined the Ecumenical Patriarchate which is not subject to Moscow.
Metropolitan Eugene who was officiating in Estonia left it, his residence permit was not renewed, because the Church on which he depends supports the war in Ukraine.
The Baltic countries are also barricading themselves.
Lithuania announced that it was closing two new border crossings on March 1.
A necessity to better control the flow of people and goods, particularly those subject to international sanctions.
Also read: Why does Lithuania unwaveringly support Ukraine?
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