The Balts are redefining their security priorities amid uncertainty over American support influenced by U.S. leadership changes. Following President Trumpâs criticism of Ukraine's leadership, Baltic states like Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are proactively arming and seeking European alliances. While their geographical vulnerability to Russia makes them feel exposed, Estonian leaders express a pragmatic optimism, recognizing the urgency to take control of their defense strategies. Diplomats emphasize that the time for relying on external powers for problem-solving has ended, suggesting a shift toward self-sufficiency in the region's security landscape.
"Everyone understands now that there is no situation anymore where someone else is coming to solve Europeâs problems." â Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna reflects on the urgency of self-defense in the Baltics.
"In Washington, opponents of Trump and friends of Ukraine were enraged by his reversal, and freaked out by it. In the Baltics, the concern was more muted."
Collection
[
|
...
]