Baltic Nations Cut Ties with Russia for Electricity: A Historic Shift to EU Power Grid
Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania cut ties with Russia’s electricity grid after 30+ years, joining the EU power network. Learn about this historic shift, energy independence, and its impact on geopolitics.
Three European Nations Cut Ties with Russia for Electricity After 30 Years
Historical Significance
Three Baltic nations—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—have decided to stop purchasing electricity from Russia and instead source it from the European Union. This marks a significant historical shift in their energy policies.
The transition process began on Saturday morning and will take two days to complete. Residents have been advised to charge their electronic devices, store food and water, and prepare for potential extreme weather conditions. The change will officially take effect during a historic event in Lithuania’s capital on Sunday.
Breaking Away from Russia’s Control
Russia has long controlled the Brell grid, which supplies electricity to Belarus, Russia, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. However, due to growing disagreements with Russia, these three Baltic countries have chosen to disconnect, leaving them temporarily isolated for about 24 hours. During this period, they will rely solely on their own electricity reserves before connecting to the European grid through Poland.
Increased Tensions with Russia
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has heightened tensions between Moscow and the Baltic nations, which share a 543-mile (874 km) border with Russia. These countries have frequently faced intimidation from Russia and fear potential attacks.
In the past 18 months, at least 11 undersea cables in the Baltic Sea have been damaged. While NATO has not directly blamed Russia for these incidents, it has responded by launching a new Baltic Sentinel patrol mission in the region.
What's Your Reaction?
