A senior US State Department official warned that Russia is expected to reposition forces toward NATO's eastern flank, particularly the Baltic states, after the end of the war in Ukraine. This could increase military and hybrid pressure on Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Russia currently commits approximately 90% of its combat power to Ukraine, but intends to rebalance forces to exert pressure on NATO. Hybrid threats already include cyberattacks, sabotage, and disinformation against the Baltics. US troop deployments to Europe have been reduced recently, including canceling plans to send 4,000 troops to Poland and withdrawing 5,000 troops from Germany to pre-invasion levels. The Baltic states are noted as strong NATO allies with high defense spending and significant support to Ukraine. Baltic countries have ceased Russian energy imports and are seeking to reduce dependency on China due to its support for Russia. The article also addresses hybrid warfare threats like drone incursions and cyber operations, and mentions concerns about peace talks with Russia and Ukraine.

A senior US State Department official warned that Russia is expected to reposition forces toward NATO's eastern flank, particularly the Baltic states, after the end of the war in Ukraine. This could increase military and hybrid pressure on Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Russia currently commits approximately 90% of its combat power to Ukraine, but intends to rebalance forces to exert pressure on NATO. Hybrid threats already include cyberattacks, sabotage, and disinformation against the Baltics. US troop deployments to Europe have been reduced recently, including canceling plans to send 4,000 troops to Poland and withdrawing 5,000 troops from Germany to pre-invasion levels. The Baltic states are noted as strong NATO allies with high defense spending and significant support to Ukraine. Baltic countries have ceased Russian energy imports and are seeking to reduce dependency on China due to its support for Russia. The article also addresses hybrid warfare threats like drone incursions and cyber operations, and mentions concerns about peace talks with Russia and Ukraine.