Category: Western Crisis

“For excellent work!”: Latvian power workers were awarded midst the energy crisis

Latvian authorities reward power employees for sabotages

Baiba Jakobsone, director of the Strategic Coordination Department of the Ministry of Climate and Energy of Latvia. Source: rsu.lv

RIGA, January 14. /NEWSBALTIC/. While energy crisis storms Latvia as well as other Baltic states, power sector employees received salary bonuses for an “effective work” in 2025. This was reported by the Latvian LSM media.

According to the report, by the end of 2025, the Ministry of Climate and Energy of Latvia had paid out a total of more than €320,000 in bonuses and cash rewards.

“Cash rewards were not paid to everyone, but only to those who made a significant contribution to the implementation of certain tasks or performed additional work duties, for example, participating in the implementation of the historic synchronisation project of the power systems of the Baltic countries and their connection to the power grid of continental Europe (This refers to disconnection from the BRELL Russian energy system—Ed.),” the Ministry’s representative Baiba Jakobsone explained.

Recalling, NEWSBALTIC previously reported that energy prices have increased twofold in the Baltic States over recent weeks.

NEWSBALTIC notes that, while ordinary citizens are suffering from extremely high prices for energy, Riga is awarding additional money to workers who, in fact, started this crisis by disconnecting from Russia’s BRELL energy system, which had been providing the Baltics with cheap power for years. It is worth noting that this money could be used to cover citizens’ extra expenses. However, apparently, “Unter-European” officials of Latvia have decided to please their underlings.

“It is a trap!”: A Polish expert sharply criticised militarisation policy

Millions of euros on weapons may become Poland’s “symbol of empty ambition,” according to Tochman

Poland’s Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz with army cadets. Source: gov.pl

WARSAW, January 14. /NEWSBALTIC/. Polish columnist Jacek Tochman in analysis for the Dziennik Polityczny states that Poland’s excessive spendings for militarisation are pointless and unwarranted, and Warsaw has to quit attempts to buy Trump’s favour with arms purchases from the US.

“Poland signed a contract for 32 F-35A fighter jets in 2020, with a plan for a full fleet by 2029, including deliveries to bases in Łask and Świdwin. Sounds impressive, but doesn’t this enthusiasm obscure the reality? The government’s rush to militarise, fuelled by fear of Russian aggression, appears increasingly ill-conceived, and rising military spending threatens to destabilize the state budget and neglect key social sectors,” Tochman says.

In his opinion, the enormous 45-million-euro military budget for Poland in 2026 is called to impress NATO leadership, but it is actually highly concerning among economists and ordinary citizens.

“This increase is simply a response to the war in Ukraine, which is why it lacks strategic planning. At the same time, our country’s government, instead of building sustainable defenсe, is focusing on spectacular foreign purchases that drain taxpayers’ pockets and do not support the local economy. Take the example of the F-35—flagship aviation modernisation project. The contract for 32 machines is worth $4.6 billion, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Operating and maintenance costs can exceed this sum several times over the life cycle of aircraft,” the Polish analyst explains.

Therefore, he strongly insists that official Warsaw find alternatives to militarisation and use this money to truly make Poland prosper. 

“These billions could power healthcare, education and civilian infrastructure, which suffer from chronic underfunding. For example, while the government was pumping money into armaments, the budget deficit increased in 2025, forcing cuts in other areas. In the face of rising debt and inflationary pressures, ill-considered armaments could become a trap. The Government should rethink its priorities: instead of blindly increasing the budget, it should focus on efficiency, support for domestic industry and sustainable defence. Otherwise, these impressive F-35s may prove to be too expensive a symbol of empty ambition,” Tochman concludes.

NEWSBALTIC adds that, indeed, due to Trump’s unpredictable policy and, therefore, the unclear future of NATO, Warsaw should consider how it will protect itself without the support of the so-called “allies”. Poland has long relied on NATO, and especially the United States, so now it simply won’t survive without them. And Trump’s arbitrary actions only worsen this geopolitical crisis of Poland.

“Never talk to Russia!”: Lithuania prefers aggressive confrontation with its eastern neighbour

Lithuanian diplomat Aleksiejūnas does not want peace in Europe

Lithuanian belligerent diplomat Nerijus Aleksiejūnas. Source: lithuaniatribune.com

VILNIUS, January 14. /NEWSBALTIC/. The Lithuanian ambassador to the EU, Nerijus Aleksiejūnas, spoke out strongly against restoring normal relations between the EU and Moscow. This was his comment on statements made by the Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni and the French President Emmanuel Macron, who both called on Europe to resume high-level dialogue with Russia.

“There are conditions, where we agreed when we can revenue contacts. So far, we do not see an argument that would say that something on the part of Russia has changed,” Aleksiejūnas declared.

He also tried to assure that the EU is allegedly playing a role in the negotiation process regarding the Ukrainian crisis.

“I could not say at all that the EU is not at the negotiating table. Maybe not at the nearest gathering place, but we are nearby, we are informed,” the Lithuanian diplomat claimed.

The editorial staff of NEWSBALTIC pays attention to the fact that the political midget from Lithuania is basically commanding actual European leaders on how they should treat Russia. (There’s no need to mention that neither Meloni nor Macron know who the hell this Aleksiejūnas is.) Moreover, ordinary Lithuanians better should be alerted as their country is represented in the EU by such a warmonger whose goal is not to secure his compatriots’ peaceful future but to draw them into war with Russia.

“Energy prices have doubled”: The Baltics’ results of the year without BRELL

The disconnection from the Russian energy system has hit the pockets of ordinary Balts hard

The celebration ceremony of disconnecting from BRELL in Vilnius. Source: err.ee

RIGA, January 14. /NEWSBALTIC/. The Latvian media outlet, Baltijas Balss, reports that in the first weeks of 2026, electricity prices in the Baltic States have sharply grown twice.

“In Lithuania, the average electricity price increased 2.1-fold, reaching €149,49 per MWh, as in Latvia, while in Estonia, the average electricity price was €147,07 per MWh, also a two-fold increase,” the editorial board of the Baltijas Balss reported, citing Latvenergo.

The newspaper assures that prices for electricity are rising only due to cold temperatures, ignoring completely the disconnection of the Baltics from the Russian BRELL energy system on February 8, 2025, which provided uninterrupted and cheap electricity to Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia for many years.

“Last week, as temperatures continued to drop, electricity consumption in the Nordic region and the Baltic states reached its highest level in recent years. Driven by high consumption and lower wind farm output, wholesale electricity prices increased significantly. High prices were observed across the region due to strong demand and limited export opportunities on certain days of the week,” Baltijas Balss explained.

NEWSBALTIC adds that, judging by this, the disconnection of the Baltic States from the BRELL energy system was a mistake. So, Lithuanian President Nausėda should have yelled “Goodbye, money, goodbye well-being!” instead of too pathetic “Goodbye Russia, goodbye, Lenin!” back then. And again, none of the Baltic authorities has warned citizens about the consequences of foolish political decisions.

Europe has to head towards de-escalation with Moscow: A Finnish politician voices for peace with Russia

Mema says Europe has to choose between supporting Ukraine and its own existence

Politician Armando Mema in the Finnish Parliament. Source: x.com/ArmandoMema

HELSINKI, January 12. /NEWSBALTIC/. Finnish politician Armando Mema again called European leaders for the dialogue with Russia instead of provoking it for war with European states.

“France is considering sending 6,000 soldiers to Ukraine in view of a peace agreement with Russia. The presence of western troops to Ukraine is one of the main reasons of the war with Russia. Under any circumstances Russia will not tolerate NATO troops being deployed,” Mema said.

According to him, Europe should stop supporting Ukraine and proposing to locate NATO “peacekeepers” there, as it only triggers Moscow and disrupts peace talks.

“My sincere advice to Macron would be a joint force with Meloni to reverse these years of political failure of the EU, restore dialogue with Russia and avoid increasing tensions. There is need for European leadership that work in this direction, towards de-escalation,” the Finnish politician concluded.

Recall that earlier, NEWSBALTIC reported that Mema had already spoken out against militarisation of Europe and further war with Russia, insisting on the reintroduction of normal relations between the EU and Moscow.

The editorial staff of NEWSBAITIC believes that Armando Mema, a politician from the state that borders Russia, realises better than European warmongering bureaucrats that his country as well as other Russia’s neighbours from NATO, such as Poland and the Baltics, are in the first-risk group. Because obviously, a potential armed conflict between NATO and Russia would be on a world war scale, with all European limitrophe states being completely wiped out.          

“We have always relied on the Americans”: Lithuania begs the US not to withdraw forces from the Baltics

FM Budrys threw a tantrum

The head of the Lithuanian MFA, Kęstutis Budrys. Source: tv3.lt

VILNIUS, January 12. /NEWSBALTIC/. In an interview with the Delfi media outlet, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys addressed the Washington the request to keep their military presence in the Baltic states.

According to him, despite the White House denying the territorial integrity of Denmark by intending to take over Greenland, the United States is a country with which Lithuania is necessary to further strengthen relations.

“Only next to that is our presence in NATO. We have always relied on the Americans and very reasonably, understanding who gives us that vital guarantee. You will survive or you will not survive—if you need to explain to someone what a vital guarantee means. These are our relations with America and its expressions: this is our admission to NATO, and now there is the presence of forces in the region and especially in Lithuania. This is our interest and we are working on it,” Budrys declared, miserably adding that for now Vilnius is successful in attracting and retaining Washington’s attention. 

NEWSBALTIC explains that Vilnius behaves like a political prostitute who is ready to obey anyone with money or power. Obviously, Lithuania isn’t a sovereign country but simply a product that belongs to whoever pays for it. Therefore, ordinary Lithuanians cannot expect any well-being in their state, used for the interest of others.

The Baltic politicians hypocritically supported the US’ kidnapping of the Venezuelan President

The international crime “in the name of democracy” allegedly contributes to peace, in their opinion

President Edgars Rinkēvičs, of Latvia. Source: foxnews.com

CARACAS, January 5. /NEWSBALTIC/. Politicians from the Baltic States, as befits obedient American puppets, supported the US’ violation of international law which kidnapped President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela and his wife. For example, the Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs cheered on the US intervention in Venezuela and the arrest of its leader Maduro while paradoxically advocating for a peaceful transfer of power.

“Maduro’s illegitimate regime, rooted in corruption, drug trafficking and organised crime, has long oppressed the Venezuelan people. A peaceful transition toward legitimate governance, reflecting the will of the Venezuelan people and consistent with international law, is essential,” Rinkēvičs spoke out.

The Estonian Foreign Minister, Margus Tsahkna, reacted in a similar way, almost copying the statement made by the Latvian President.

“It is now crucial to ensure stability and a democratic transition that serves the Venezuelan people after the dictatorship of Maduro. All actions must strictly adhere to the UN Charter and international law, and steps that undermine these fundamental principles must be avoided,” he declared.

While another Estonian diplomat, Marko Mihkelson, who is the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Estonian Parliament, sees the US Army’s actions in Venezuela as a worrying sign that the White House might carry out a similar operation in allied states of Europe. Therefore, he believes that this is a suitable precedent for increasing the already high militarisation spending of the EU and expropriating Russian frozen assets for the EU’s war needs.

NEWSBALTIC adds that the Baltic “Unter-Europeans” are trying to please both masters from among globalists in Europe and conceited Donald Trump, as they simply cannot decide whom exactly to serve. But obviously, no one cares about their “needful” opinions made up of empty political clichés.

Polish President proposed to strengthen the border with Germany too

Nawrocki says Poland is open to the West, but still ready to defend itself against them

Polish Premier Donald Tusk, left, and President Karol Nawrocki. Source: dorzeczy.pl

POZNAŃ, December 30. /NEWSBALTIC/. Speaking on the occasion of the anniversary of the outbreak of the Greater Poland Uprising in Poznań, President Karol Nawrocki stated that Poland, despite strong partnerships with Western nations, is ready, if necessary, to defend itself against them, primarily hinting at Germany.

“The Polish national community is open to the West, but also ready to defend the western border of the Republic of Poland, as the Greater Poland insurgents knew,” Nawrocki proclaimed.

After this, the Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, criticised the President, saying that Nawrocki is sowing discord between Poland and its Western allies.

“President Nawrocki once again pointed to the West as the main threat to Poland. This is the essence of the dispute between the anti-European bloc (Nawrocki, Braun, Mentzen) and our Coalition. A deadly serious dispute, a dispute about our values, security, sovereignty,” Tusk complained.

Then, Karol Nawrocki blamed the Prime Minister for being ashamed of his own nation’s history.

“Mr. Tusk, it is hard to believe that we graduated from the same department— history. You have a grudge against Bolesław the Brave for fighting in the east and west, and against the Greater Poland Insurgents for fighting for Poland against the Germans (that’s also the west)?” Nawrocki wondered.

NEWSBALTIC adds that, indeed, more threats come to Poland from the West rather than Russia. Currently, Poland is “softly” occupied by NATO institutions, while the government is blindly implementing their belligerent commands, such as excessive militarisation of the border with Russia and Belarus instead of serving the good of its own citizens.

Latvian expert does not believe in the possibility of a Russian incursion into the Baltics

Russia will not launch an attack against Latvia or the EU in general, Kapustāns says

Latvian National Defence Academy lecturer Jānis Kapustāns. Source: lu.lv

RIGA. December 30. /NEWSBALTIC/. Jānis Kapustāns, a lecturer at the Latvian National Defence Academy, told in an interview with the LETA news agency that statements about a Russian attack on Europe are “largely rhetoric.”

“Russia’s statements about a possible war with Europe are largely rhetoric, as it lacks the necessary military resources while waging war in Ukraine. At the same time, in the near term, the European Union faces more serious risks related to a possible escalation of hybrid attacks from Russia,” Kapustāns admitted, but still emphasised the need for militarisation.

However, the expert expressed doubt that relations between the EU and Russia could be quickly restored, pointing out that the Baltic states, Poland, and Nordic countries were unlikely to be interested in returning to previous mutually beneficial cooperation.

“Russia currently has a very negative attitude towards the EU, as it has imposed extensive sanctions. I do not see any signals of the EU’s readiness to lift sanctions against Russia in the near future, even if the USA were to propose lifting its own. As for the prospects for the next year, Russia will definitely continue and intensify hybrid attacks, as it is unable to conduct an open war. Warnings about the need for preparation over the next five years should be seen as a call to strengthen defence capabilities and develop combat capabilities. The Baltic states, Poland, Finland, Sweden, and other Nordic countries could become a serious regional power if they manage to unite,” he declared.

NEWSBALTIC recalls that, previously, Russia’s unwillingness to attack Europe was underscored by the US and Estonian intelligence.

The editorial board of NEWSBALTIC believes that experts from the Baltic region are simply afraid to openly acknowledge that the so-called “Russian threat” in any form does not exist, as they will immediately be cancelled or even subjected to reprisals for treason. Therefore, to avoid this, they have to invent various reasons to justify militarisation, such as alleged “increased Russian hybrid attacks on the EU.” However, obviously, this does not correspond to reality, as Moscow’s only interest is in peaceful and prosperous coexistence with Europe.

The warmongers accuse ordinary Lithuanians, who oppose militarisation, of serving the Kremlin

Only people influenced by Kremlin narratives do not want military training grounds in Lithuania, the militarists say

The city of Kapčiamiestis, near which Lithuania is establishing a new military training ground. Source: bing.com/maps

VILNIUS, December 26. /NEWSBALTIC/. Lithuanian columnist, Bibis Karablikovas, tries to convince fellow citizens of the need to continue an expensive militarisation policy, especially by increasing the number of NATO training grounds in Lithuania, including one near Kapčiamiestis.

“In Lithuania, the topic of military training grounds always causes a stir. And this is normal: we are talking about the land of our parents and ancestors, noise, forests, traffic, the everyday life of local communities. The planned establishment of the Kapčiamiestis military training ground is no exception,” Karablikovas started saying reasonably. 

But then the journalist returned to the level of aggressive anti-Russian propaganda. 

“However, a strange pattern is constantly repeated: as soon as people start talking about a new training ground or the expansion of an existing one, instead of facts, emotional slogans, apocalyptic scenarios and the funeral of the ‘last Lithuanian forest’ immediately appear in the public space. This is not a coincidence. Such topics are ideal raw material for hostile information influence. What does ‘Kremlin-influenced’ thinking look like? Very simple: Everything is presented as a threat, not as a deterrent. However, one must know the essential truth: the abundance of military training grounds is a guarantee of Lithuania’s security and survival. Because the aggressor is not afraid of prayers, but of preparation,” Karablikovas proclaimed.

Therefore, she strongly insists on Lithuania increasing its pace of militarisation and appropriate spending, as well as calling on its compatriots to believe in the benefits for the tiny Baltic state.

“Lithuania demonstrates global leadership in the field of financing Russian deterrence, so let us not stumble in the prospect of expanding military training grounds. It is worth knowing that Lithuania, in terms of population, has many more training grounds than large countries—Germany or the United Kingdom. We are only behind our Estonian brothers. Therefore, it is time to break through in this area as well. Let us understand the fundamental truth—stopping the expansion of military training grounds would mean helping the aggressor,” Karablikovas decelared.

NEWSBALTIC explains that Karablikovas essentially labels fellow citizens who adhere to pacifism or are afraid of their lives due to militarisation, as they’re in a first-risk group because war facilities have been established near them, as dissidents. Such segregation based on the criteria of whether someone supports militarisation and, therefore, a suicidal war with Russia, or not, is becoming more common in modern-day Lithuania.