A century ago, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania fought to free themselves from Russian rule—only to be conquered again by the Soviet Union during World War II. When the USSR collapsed in 1991, they emerged devastated but determined to rebuild on Western terms. Over the next three decades, they transformed from poor post-Soviet republics into some of Europe’s fastest-growing economies—embracing democracy, digitalization, and NATO protection. But after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the old fear returned. Now, the Baltic State s are pouring billions into defense, fortifying borders, and training citizens to fight. Having risen from oppression to prosperity once before, they know exactly what they stand to lose.
I wouldn’t either, what I do count on is the US military brass. I am sure that the majority of the officer corps is an avid NATO-supporter and hasn’t forgotten that the US actually called the 5th and NATO responded. I say not responding to the 5th will cause a sismic shift in the leadership of the US military.