The Baltic States: A History Shaped by Russia and the Fight for Independence

The Baltic states—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—have long shared a complex and often painful history with their powerful neighbor, Russia. Situated on the eastern edge of Europe, these nations have spent much of the 20th century under Russian dominance, first as part of the Russian Empire and later under Soviet rule. Now independent, the specter of Russian aggression looms large, and the war in Ukraine has reignited memories of their troubled past. Today, people in the Baltic states are resolute in their determination to defend their freedom at all costs.

A History of Occupation and Resistance

In 1940, the Soviet Union annexed Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, making them part of the USSR for nearly five decades. The occupation was brutal, with repression of the local culture, forced deportations, and the imposition of Soviet ideology. The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 finally brought independence to the Baltic states, but the legacy of this long period of occupation remains.

For many in the region, the threat of Russian expansionism is ever-present. The annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine have only deepened suspicions and fears about Russia’s ambitions. To this day, people in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania remember the Soviet past and are unwilling to repeat history. In fact, many are prepared to take up arms to defend their countries if necessary.

The Impact of the War in Ukraine

The war in Ukraine has made the Baltic states' relationship with Russia even more fraught. For countries that share land borders with Russia, the idea that they could be the next target is never far from their minds. In Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, there is a renewed sense of solidarity and determination. Citizens are more than willing to stand firm in the face of Russian aggression.

In Estonia, for example, the memory of the Soviet occupation still resonates strongly. The government has taken steps to remove Soviet monuments from public spaces, reflecting the public’s desire to break free from the Soviet legacy and assert their independence. In Tallinn, the capital, Soviet-era statues have been dismantled, and a shift toward modern, pro-European, and pro-democratic values is palpable. The destruction of these monuments is more than a symbolic act; it represents a rejection of the occupying force that once sought to suppress the Estonian identity.

The war in Ukraine has brought new museum exhibits, including pieces of Russian military uniforms taken from killed soldiers. These exhibits serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by Russia and act as a symbol of resistance to Moscow's continued aggression.

National Identity and the Struggle for Freedom

For the people of the Baltic states, the fight for independence and the preservation of their cultural identity is a deeply personal issue. Estonia, in particular, has a vibrant and resilient national culture. The "Singing Revolution" of the late 1980s—when Estonians used their voices to peacefully resist Soviet tanks—remains a defining moment in the country’s history. It was a time when the nation’s cultural heritage, including traditional songs and festivals, became symbols of defiance against Soviet oppression.

Today, singing and other cultural traditions continue to play an important role in Estonian society. It is no longer just about preserving old customs; these traditions are an integral part of the national identity and the fight to maintain their hard-won independence. The pride Estonians feel in their heritage is visible at cultural events such as the Estonian Song Festival, a celebration of their culture that is central to the national consciousness.

Divided Loyalties: The Russian Minority in the Baltics

Despite the unity of the majority population in these countries, the Russian-speaking minority presents a more complex situation. In cities like Narva, which lies just across the river from Russia, many ethnic Russians still feel a connection to their homeland and have strong pro-Russian sympathies. This division is particularly evident in Estonia, where many Russian-speaking residents either admire the Russian president or long for the days of Soviet rule.

Alina, a young teacher in Narva, embodies this generational divide. She was born in Estonia to Russian-speaking parents, and while she identifies as Estonian, she finds herself at odds with her father, who supports Vladimir Putin. Despite the ideological differences within her family, Alina has embraced her Estonian identity, even protesting against the Russian invasion of Ukraine by wearing an anti-Putin t-shirt in a public demonstration. Her act of defiance became a viral moment, reflecting the growing discontent with Russia’s actions among the younger generation in the Baltics.

The Future: Unity Amidst Tension

For the younger generation in the Baltic states, life after independence is a delicate balancing act between preserving their freedom and navigating the complex relations with Russia. Estonia’s youth, like Matthias, are committed to their country’s future, creating successful businesses and contributing to the global economy. But even as Estonia looks toward a high-tech future, it is clear that the threat from Russia is not forgotten.

At the same time, the deep cultural and historical ties between the Russian-speaking minority and Russia cannot be ignored. Alina’s story highlights the challenges of reconciling these two worlds—one that embraces Estonia’s independence and another that continues to feel the pull of Russia. These divisions will likely continue to shape the political landscape in the coming years.

In the end, the Baltic states are united by a strong sense of independence and a collective desire to never again be subject to foreign domination. The war in Ukraine has only reinforced their resolve to stand together against external threats, but the tensions within their societies regarding Russia's influence will need to be carefully managed. As they move forward, the people of the Baltic states are determined to protect the freedom they have fought so hard to secure, standing firm in the face of an ever-looming threat from Moscow.