News item | 15-01-2025 | 16:09
Be prepared, because deterrence is the best defense there is. That was the central message from the 3 Baltic Defense Ministers in The Hague today. Hanno Pevkur (Estonia), Andris Sprūds (Latvia) and Dovilė Šakalienė (Lithuania) were received today by Minister Ruben Brekelmans.
During the press moment The Hague Center for Strategic Studies (HCSS) showed the four were on the same page. Including support for Ukraine and strengthening NATO on the eastern flank so that it acts as an even greater deterrent. Because almost nowhere is the Russian threat as clearly noticeable as in the Baltic States.
For example, Estonian Minister Pevkur stated that support for Ukraine also helps other countries on the eastern flank of the treaty area. “Otherwise, Russia will simply move its troops.” To reinforce his words, he emphasized that the NATO standard of 2% is not enough.
His Latvian colleague Sprūds also wants to involve the European Union even more closely. “The EU must play a major role in strengthening the Defense industry. Don’t forget that Ukraine is also fighting for us.”
Tortured
Lithuanian Minister Šakalienė said during the HCSS meeting ‘Baltic Defense Line‘ a personal story. An uncle of one of her parents ended up in a Siberian cell. “He distributed pamphlets saying ‘Lithuania is free’. He was captured and tortured. Russia is not going to feel sorry for anyone. It doesn’t matter whether you are man or woman, adult or just a child. We must prepare as best we can. Because deterrence is our best defense.”
There were also words of gratitude for the Dutch efforts. For example, the air force operates F-35s from Estonia to ensure that Russian fighter aircraft remain outside the NATO treaty area. The army has been stationing soldiers in Lithuania since 2017 enhanced Forward Presence. And the navy is also showing its teeth. In the Baltic Sea and surrounding sea area, ships ensure that no sabotage is committed on important infrastructure on the seabed.
The three agreed that the Netherlands is thus contributing to security for the Baltic countries and the rest of NATO.
Crucial year
Ministers Brekelmans already spoke words to the same effect earlier in the day. “Our borders are also yours. 2025 is a crucial year. Not only for Ukraine, but also for the Baltic defense line, NATO and the EU.” He expressed his continued support. “We are with you and will remain with you. We must and we will strengthen our collective defense. Europe must take that step now.”