In Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, the ongoing war in Ukraine is seen as the frontline of defense. Providing support to Ukraine is viewed as crucial because if Ukraine loses the war, Russian forces could return to the borders of these Baltic states.

Donald Trump’s decision to halt aid and intelligence to Ukraine and to ease relations with Russia has caused concern among the three post-Soviet nations.

Despite Trump’s commitment to Poland, he hesitated when asked about the presence of US troops in the Baltic states, saying they are in a difficult neighborhood but that the US is committed.

However, Trump emphasized that Europe must increase its defense spending, as it is currently spending less than the US.

The Baltic states are among the highest defense spenders as a percentage of GDP within NATO and have been urging other European countries to increase their defense budgets. In 2024, Estonia spent 3.43%, Latvia 3.15%, and Lithuania 2.85% of their GDP on defense, and all have pledged to raise their spending to 5% of GDP in light of recent developments.

Tomas Jarmalavicius, head of studies at the International Centre for Defense and Security in Tallinn, Estonia, stated that the Baltic states are trying to balance the US’s continued commitment to Europe and the need to increase support for Ukraine to pressure Russia.

There has been no change in NATO’s policy, and the Baltic states will continue to work with the United States regarding Ukraine, according to Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal.

Estonia has pledged to increase its defense spending to 5% of its GDP.

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/trump-positioning-leaves-baltics-walking-a-tightrope/a-71869374?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf