Baltic states on alert as Russia appoints president
The Russian presidential vote began this Friday, March 15.
Fearing possible excesses, especially after the attack on Russian opponent Leonid Volkov, the three Baltic countries bordering Russia decided to strengthen their security and be vigilant during the vote.
The city of Vilnius, capital of Lithuania (photo illustration).
REUTERS/Ints Kalnins
By: RFI Follow
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With our correspondent in Vilnius,
Marielle Vitureau
Together, the three Baltic countries have almost 1,000 kilometers in common with Russia.
And more than 130,000 Russian nationals live in the region.
The attack on opponent Leonid Volkov in Vilnius at the start of the week shook Lithuania.
The country's intelligence believes that hybrid attacks carried out by Russia on its territory are likely.
Prevention is therefore better than cure.
The three Baltic countries have decided to strengthen the protection of their borders on Saturday and Sunday to prevent any spillover linked to the presidential election in their neighbor.
Indeed, mobile polling stations will be deployed in Russia not far from the border, to allow Russian citizens to vote.
Previously, but even more so since Russia launched the war in Ukraine, the question of the loyalty of these Russian citizens arises.
Closure of border crossings, suspension of the validity of visas, ban on the circulation of cars registered in Russia... The list is long to limit contacts and could get even longer.
Read alsoLithuania: after the attack on Leonid Volkov, Russian opponents are worried about their security
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