Russia's NATO ultimatum stirs Baltic unease amid Ukraine talks
The head of the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns that Russia may issue an ultimatum regarding NATO borders reverting to their 1997 status during negotiations concerning Ukraine. This could mean demanding the withdrawal from the Alliance of countries such as Poland and the Baltic states. Such demands were included at the end of 2021 in a security treaty proposal presented by the Kremlin.
Talks initiated by the United States with Russia over Ukraine are raising concerns among the Baltic states. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys, speaking to Žiniu Radijas, expressed confidence that these discussions will occur. He warned that the Kremlin's demands could include the withdrawal of Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, and newer NATO members such as Finland and Sweden from the alliance.
International reactions
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna also expressed his concern. "The only dictator, the only tyrant, the only aggressor, the only war criminal here remains Putin—there is no doubt about that," Tsahkna said on the ETV television programme.
Latvian diplomacy head Baiba Braže stressed that Putin must not be allowed to achieve his goals. In an interview with the BBC, she noted that it is in the allies' interest to ensure the security of the Euro-Atlantic area and support Ukraine.
In Riga, the parliament adopted a resolution expressing full support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Latvian deputies agreed that peace negotiations can only take place with Ukraine's full involvement. 82 members of the 100-member chamber supported the declaration.
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