The US must act now to secure the Baltic from Russia
The Hill
by Pawel Markiewicz, opinion contributorFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The United States must prioritize a comprehensive strategy in the Baltic region to safeguard its security interests and counter Russia’s growing influence. The Baltic Sea has become a critical theater for geopolitical competition, with Moscow increasingly asserting dominance through military exercises, disinformation campaigns, and hybrid tactics. U.S. involvement is essential to strengthen democratic alliances, deter Russian aggression, and maintain regional stability.
The region's significance lies in its proximity to key strategic points, including NATO member states Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland, as well as non-member countries like Sweden and Finland. Russia’s actions, such as its 2014 annexation of Crimea and ongoing military buildup along the Baltic littoral, have raised concerns about its intentions to expand influence further. A coordinated U.S. strategy would involve enhancing NATO capabilities, supporting democratic institutions, and promoting economic resilience in the region.
For readers interested in politics, this issue underscores the broader struggle for power in Eastern Europe and the Atlantic Alliance’s ability to counter adversarial nations. The Baltic Sea is not just a theater of conflict but also a test of U.S. commitment to its NATO obligations and its capacity to lead in countering authoritarian expansion. Ignoring the region could allow Russia to consolidate its grip, weaken democratic norms, and create long-term vulnerabilities for Western security.
In conclusion, a proactive U.S. strategy in the Baltic is not just about containing Russia but also about preserving the balance of power in Europe. By investing in regional partnerships, modernizing defenses, and engaging diplomatically, Washington can ensure that the Baltic remains a zone of stability rather than a battleground for conflict. The stakes are high, and failure to act could have far-reaching consequences for transatlantic security and global stability.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/26/2026