Why did Russia acquiesce to NATO expansion in the Baltic?

• In Event: Baltic Geopolitics Network panel: Re-emergence of the Baltic states in great power strategy after 1991

Abstract

Ukraine's lack of success in joining NATO in the last 20 years often puts a spotlight on the Baltic states as the only former republics of the Soviet Union that actually made it to NATO in 2004. Why did Russia let them go peacefully, while it drew a line in the sand over Ukraine? In addition to geopolitical and civilisational factors, as well as Russia's temporary romance with the US in the early 2000s, had there been tactical differences in the way the West tried to appease Russian sensibilities? How important was the Baltic states' diplomatic action in both East and West in appeasing Russia? This paper presents the work in progress, based on research of newly available archival materials and many interviews with Western, Russian and Baltic diplomats and policymakers.

Author

• Donatas Kupčiūnas, Cambridge University