Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have successfully transitioned from the Russian electricity grid to the European Union's network, marking a significant shift in their energy independence. The transition, completed over two days, saw the Baltic states disconnect from Russia's grid on Saturday morning. For approximately 24 hours, these nations operated as an "energy island" before joining the EU grid on Sunday. This move is a substantial step towards reducing their dependency on Moscow for energy flow.
"Today, history is made," "This is freedom, freedom from threats, freedom from blackmail."
— EU chief Ursula von der Leyen
The Baltic states have not purchased electricity from Russia since 2022, although they remained connected to the Brell grid, which left them vulnerable to Moscow's control. Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko celebrated the transition as a "significant event for the whole of Europe." This transition is the culmination of a project initiated in 2007, accelerated by Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda used the occasion to call for sanctions on Russia's shadow fleet. At a ceremony in Lithuania's capital, EU chief Ursula von der Leyen spoke to attendees, emphasizing the need for NATO vigilance against potential Russian retaliation.
"It is the final step towards emancipation from the post-Soviet sphere of dependence,"
— Polish President Andrzej Duda
Recent incidents have heightened concerns about security. In the past 18 months, at least 11 cables running under the Baltic Sea have sustained damage. Ms. Von der Leyen pointed out these incidents, stating,
"there is a pattern, and we cannot ignore it."
Despite these challenges, the nations are steadfast in their commitment to energy independence.
The Kremlin has declined to comment on the transition. However, this silence does not obscure the broader geopolitical implications of the Baltic states' move. By joining the EU power grid, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have taken a decisive step towards reinforcing their sovereignty and aligning more closely with European allies.
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