Baltic States Strengthen Defenses Amid Rising Tensions with Russia

As geopolitical tensions escalate in Eastern Europe, the Baltic states—Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia—are feeling increasingly threatened by their larger neighbor, Russia. The history of conflict between these nations and Russia looms large, influencing their current defense strategies and shaping regional dynamics.

Historical Context

Throughout the 20th century, the Baltic nations fought persistently for their independence from Russian control. Recent events, including Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, have reignited fears of aggression in the region. The specter of Russian military action has prompted the Baltic states to double down on defense and security measures.

Increased Defense Spending

In response to these threats, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia have significantly increased their defense budgets. This boost in funding supports the construction of a joint Baltic defense line, which includes the establishment of hundreds of fortified bunkers and anti-tank obstacles. These initiatives are bolstered by the presence of multinational NATO military units and participation in the UK-led joint expeditionary force.

Tartu's Unique Position

In Estonia, the city of Tartu—approximately 40 kilometers from the Russian border—has become a focal point for discussions about regional security. The city recently served as the backdrop for an event titled “Arts of Survival,” which highlighted the cultural ties between Tartu, Estonia, and Europe. This event, co-organized by various academic institutions and embassies, brought together political scientists and historians to examine life along the border with Russia and to discuss issues related to identity, culture, and war.

In a stark reminder of Russia's influence, in May 2024, GPS signals to Tartu airport were reportedly disrupted, leading to the suspension of daily flights by Finnish airline Finnair. Such incidents underline how easily Russia can interfere in the daily lives of people in the region.

Cultural Complexities

The theme of culture as both a bridge and a battleground is particularly relevant in Estonia, where over 300,000 residents are native Russian speakers—approximately 27% of the population. Estonian officials are concerned that Russian President Vladimir Putin may use the plight of these Russian speakers as a pretext for potential military action, similar to the justification he provided for the invasion of Ukraine.

This cultural dynamic is especially pronounced in Narva, Estonia's third-largest city, which borders Russia. With over 95% of its population being native Russian speakers, Narva has become emblematic of the cultural rift that characterizes contemporary Estonia. In May 2022, in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine, Putin claimed it would be justifiable to "take back and secure" Narva, raising alarm among its citizens.

The local museum in Narva has taken a strong stance against the Russian government's actions, consistently displaying messages condemning Putin as a war criminal during prominent dates, including Victory Day, which Russia celebrates annually.

State Policies and Cultural Identity

In an effort to solidify its national identity, the Estonian government has removed Soviet-era monuments that it argues glorify Russian occupation. Such actions have led to political repercussions, with the former Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and other Baltic state politicians being placed on a Russian wanted list.

As of September 2023, Estonia is also transitioning its school system to adopt a purely Estonian-language curriculum. This shift aims to unify the education system and promote a more robust sense of national identity. Experts suggest that while this change faced previous delays, there is now a consensus on its necessity.

However, the path to integration is fraught with challenges. The panel discussions at Tartu’s recent event emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive and inclusive attitude towards Russian speakers while supporting Ukrainian refugees and Russian-speaking intellectuals who oppose the Kremlin's regime.

Despite these tensions, the overarching goal within Estonia appears to be a reconciliation of cultural identities—a move toward a stronger European identity while addressing historical grievances.

Conclusion

The role of culture in Estonia is emerging as a significant factor in managing geopolitical tensions with Russia. While the Baltic states fortify their defenses against potential aggression, fostering a positive, inclusive cultural landscape may play a crucial role in securing a peaceful future for all residents. The journey ahead will require balancing the realities of security with the ideals of inclusion and mutual respect in a multifaceted cultural environment.