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Baltic States

All articles tagged with #baltic states

EU funds Baltic grid shield as Russia-Ukraine war exposes energy risk
world3 days ago

EU funds Baltic grid shield as Russia-Ukraine war exposes energy risk

EU will allocate 113 million euros from its long-term budget to Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and Poland to harden power grids against Russian attacks, financing physical barriers, anti-drone and cyber defenses, protective troops, and rapid repair teams. While the sum is modest and time-limited, officials say it signals EU commitment to energy security and will complement domestic spending as cross-border projects aim to reduce single points of failure across Europe.

Baltics push for a military Schengen to speed troop movements
world27 days ago

Baltics push for a military Schengen to speed troop movements

Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania agreed to create a Baltic Military Mobility Area to remove peacetime bureaucratic bottlenecks and allow faster movement of troops and equipment across borders, envisioning a Schengen-like regime across land, sea, air and cyber domains. The move aims to boost deterrence amid Russia’s threat, but implementation will require broader European cooperation and is unlikely to be solved in six months.

Escalating Tensions: Russia’s Hybrid Warfare and NATO’s Readiness
military-and-defense5 months ago

Escalating Tensions: Russia’s Hybrid Warfare and NATO’s Readiness

The article discusses how a potential Russia-NATO war could start, emphasizing that Russia might initiate a quick, covert attack on the Baltic states using drones, electronic warfare, and surprise tactics to exploit NATO's weaknesses, rather than engaging in a traditional large-scale battle, thereby risking the alliance's unity and credibility.

Lithuania Calls on NATO to Strengthen Air Defenses Amid Drone Threats
world6 months ago

Lithuania Calls on NATO to Strengthen Air Defenses Amid Drone Threats

Lithuania has requested NATO to strengthen its air defenses after a Russian drone carrying explosives entered its airspace, marking the second such incident in a month. The drone, believed to be Russian-made, was neutralized by Lithuanian forces, and Lithuania has called on NATO for immediate action, citing growing threats and recent violations by Russian and Belarusian forces.

Georgia Faces Turmoil: Protests, Sanctions, and Political Standoff
international-politics1 year ago

Georgia Faces Turmoil: Protests, Sanctions, and Political Standoff

The Baltic States have imposed sanctions on Georgian officials following a crackdown on pro-EU protests in Georgia, increasing pressure on the EU to consider similar measures. The protests erupted after the Georgian government suspended EU accession talks until 2028, leading to clashes with police and numerous arrests. The EU is debating its response, with potential sanctions and visa liberalization suspension on the table, though unanimity among member states is uncertain due to differing positions, notably from Hungary.

Baltic States Announce Exit from Moscow-Controlled Power Grid
international-news1 year ago

Baltic States Announce Exit from Moscow-Controlled Power Grid

The Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have officially notified Russia and Belarus that they will exit the Moscow-controlled electricity grid by February 2025, transitioning to the continental European energy network. This move, accelerated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, aims to enhance energy security and independence from Moscow.

Baltic States to Exit Russia-Controlled Power Grid by 2025
international-relations1 year ago

Baltic States to Exit Russia-Controlled Power Grid by 2025

The Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have officially notified Russia and Belarus that they will exit the Moscow-controlled electricity grid by February 2025, transitioning to the continental European energy network. This move, accelerated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, aims to enhance energy security and independence from Moscow.

"Baltic States Brace for Russian Aggression as NATO and Britain Ramp Up Defense"
international-relations1 year ago

"Baltic States Brace for Russian Aggression as NATO and Britain Ramp Up Defense"

The Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, as Nato members for 20 years, face a daunting threat from Russia and are calling for increased support from Nato and the United Kingdom. They emphasize the need for collective defense to guarantee security in Europe, highlighting their own efforts in defense investment and support for Ukraine. With concerns about Russia's ambitions and potential threats, they urge Nato to proactively create strategic dilemmas for Russia and emphasize the necessity of strong leadership and support from the UK.

"Neighboring NATO Nations Rush to Build Bunkers Amid Rising Tensions with Russia"
international-relations2 years ago

"Neighboring NATO Nations Rush to Build Bunkers Amid Rising Tensions with Russia"

Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia are constructing extensive defensive installations, including bunkers, anti-tank ditches, and barbed wire, along their borders with Russia and Belarus in response to the war in Ukraine. The Baltic Defense Line, a key part of their agreement, aims to deter and impede potential Russian aggression. This initiative reflects the Baltic states' concerns about Russia's increasing belligerence and their willingness to independently bolster their defenses. Additionally, the three countries have also agreed to develop High Mobility Artillery Rocket System capabilities in collaboration with the U.S.

"Russian Military Buildup: Impending Confrontation with NATO"
international-relations2 years ago

"Russian Military Buildup: Impending Confrontation with NATO"

The Estonian secret service has reported that Russia is preparing for a potential confrontation with the West, citing military reform and an increase in troop strength near the Baltic states' borders. The report suggests that Russia aims to achieve military dominance in the Baltic Sea region, but the likelihood of a direct attack on Estonia this year is low. Additionally, high-ranking Baltic politicians have been placed on a Russian "wanted" list, with the Russian authorities blaming them for the demolition of Soviet memorials, while the affected officials view the designation as a badge of honor.

"Russia Adds Estonian Prime Minister to Wanted List Amid NATO Tensions"
international-relations2 years ago

"Russia Adds Estonian Prime Minister to Wanted List Amid NATO Tensions"

Russia has placed Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas on a wanted list, along with two other Baltic leaders, for "desecration of historical memory" following the removal of Soviet-era monuments. This move comes just days after former President Trump's controversial remarks about not defending NATO nations behind on their defense spending. The Baltic states' strained relationship with Russia, the issue of Soviet-era monuments, and the large Russian-speaking minorities in these nations have contributed to heightened tensions in Eastern Europe.

"Russia Adds Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas to Wanted List for Monument Destruction"
international-relations2 years ago

"Russia Adds Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas to Wanted List for Monument Destruction"

Russian police have placed Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, Lithuania's culture minister, and members of the previous Latvian parliament on a wanted list for allegedly destroying Soviet monuments, punishable by a 5-year prison term under Russian law. This move comes after the Baltic nations of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania demolished most of their Soviet-era monuments following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Baltic politicians risk arrest if they enter Russia, but the practical consequences are unlikely. The Baltic states, members of the EU and NATO, have strained relations with Moscow, and the Russian Foreign Ministry has indicated that this is just the beginning of their response.

"Baltic Nations' 600 Bunkers: A Defense Against Russian Invasion"
international-relations2 years ago

"Baltic Nations' 600 Bunkers: A Defense Against Russian Invasion"

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are planning to build 600 bunkers along their borders with Russia to deter and defeat a potential Russian incursion. The bunkers, part of a 60 million euro project, are intended to prevent invasion and occupation by Moscow. The move aligns with NATO's updated "forward defense posture and deterrence by denial" approach, aiming to defend every inch of allied territory at all times. The fortifications will be supplied via nearby stockpiles of equipment and ammunition and are designed to hold 10 troops each, providing protection against enemy artillery shells.

"Baltic States Collaborate to Strengthen Border Defenses Against Russia and Belarus"
international-relations2 years ago

"Baltic States Collaborate to Strengthen Border Defenses Against Russia and Belarus"

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have signed an agreement to jointly build defensive fortifications along their borders with Russia and Belarus, aiming to deter and protect against potential military threats. The plan includes creating anti-mobility installations and integrating HIMARS rocket systems into their defense plans. The joint effort is supported by the US and is seen as a response to the security situation in the region, particularly in light of concerns about potential Russian aggression.