Social media users have sparked controversy by claiming that Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are against a ceasefire in Russia’s war in Ukraine. Posts suggest that the Baltic states fear a ceasefire would lead to Russian forces invading their territories once the fighting in Ukraine ends. These claims stem from a report published in the Financial Times indicating that Baltic defense ministers warned that ending the war in Ukraine would heighten security threats to their countries. The ministers emphasized concerns over Russia redistributing its forces and accelerating its military capabilities following a ceasefire. They also expressed worries about the upcoming large-scale military exercise known as Zapad, conducted by Russia and Belarus every four years to simulate a conflict with NATO.
Negotiations for a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, brokered by the US, have hit a roadblock. While Kyiv has agreed to halt hostilities in the Black Sea and adhere to a 30-day ceasefire, Moscow has only consented to stop attacking energy infrastructure and is demanding the lifting of Western economic sanctions. Baltic defense ministers have warned against NATO troops being redeployed from their countries to Ukraine post-ceasefire, fearing it could jeopardize the security of the eastern flank of NATO. Although the Baltic states are concerned about the implications of a ceasefire in Ukraine, they are not against stopping the fighting.
Estonia and Latvia’s official stance is that they are fully committed to achieving a ceasefire in Ukraine and support efforts to establish peace in the region. The countries vehemently deny the online claims asserting otherwise and emphasize their support for Kyiv. They accuse Russia of imposing new preconditions for a ceasefire and assert that Russian President Vladimir Putin is seeking the complete subjugation of Ukraine and a fundamental restructuring of European security. Both countries criticize Russia for continuing attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure and civilians without showing a willingness to meet ceasefire conditions.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia affirms that the country desires just, comprehensive, and lasting peace and points out that all indicators suggest Russia is oriented towards war, with no signs of moving towards peace. The spokesperson highlights Latvia’s close ties to Ukraine’s fight for independence and the country’s extensive support for Ukraine through military, political, financial, and humanitarian means. Similarly, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia underscores that the only impediment to peace in the region is Russia’s aggression, as the country continues to target Ukraine’s infrastructure and civilians. The Baltic states remain among Ukraine’s strongest supporters in proportion to GDP.
While the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania did not respond to requests for comment, the Baltic states, collectively, are dedicated to achieving peace in Ukraine and ensuring the security of their own territories. They recognize the importance of upholding international law, including the principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty, in achieving a just and lasting peace. Despite concerns about the potential consequences of a ceasefire, the Baltic states prioritize supporting Ukraine in its struggle for independence and condemn Russia’s aggressive actions in the region. Overall, the Baltic states remain committed to working towards peace and stability in the region while standing firmly against external aggression and threats to their security.
