**Baltic Countries Break Free from Russian Energy Grip**
On February 8, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania took a major step towards energy independence by disconnecting their power grids from Russia’s. This move was hailed as “another historic day for European integration” by the Estonian Foreign Ministry.
The Baltic countries have been working to break free from Russia’s control over their energy systems. For years, Moscow used energy as a tool to exert influence over its neighbors. By synchronizing with the continental European electricity grid, the Baltics can now maintain reliable power supply without relying on Russia.
This move was made possible after Lithuania announced in July 2024 that it would fully synchronize with the European grid by February 2025. Latvian Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas also warned earlier this month that his country is prepared for potential technical difficulties and sabotage during the synchronization process.
**Ukraine’s Precedent**
This isn’t the first time a country has disconnected itself from Russia’s energy grid. In February 2022, Ukraine stopped buying electricity and gas from Russia after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion. The Estonian Foreign Ministry noted that Estonia also stopped buying Russian energy in response to the invasion.
By making their energy systems independent of Russia, the Baltics have reduced the Kremlin’s ability to use energy as a tool against Europe. This move is seen as a significant step towards greater European integration and energy security.