Baltic Nations Cut Final Energy Ties with Russia, Join EU Power Grid
Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have completed a historic switch to the European power grid, ending decades of reliance on Moscow's electricity network.
- The Baltic states disconnected from the Russian-controlled IPS/UPS power grid on Saturday, marking the end of a Soviet-era energy link.
- The transition to the EU grid, finalized on Sunday, strengthens energy security and reduces the risk of Russian geopolitical leverage over the region.
- The move follows years of planning accelerated by Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which heightened fears of energy blackmail and sabotage.
- The €1.6 billion project, funded largely by the EU, connects the Baltics to Europe via Poland and includes measures to protect critical infrastructure.
- Officials report a smooth transition, with no power disruptions, as the Baltics celebrate newfound energy independence and integration with Europe.