The Story
Why the Baltics are preparing for Putin
Mar 21, 2025
Oliver Moody, the Berlin Correspondent for The Times and The Sunday Times, dives into the escalating tensions in the Baltic states, particularly Estonia's concerns about Russian aggression. He outlines historical struggles, NATO's military strategies, and potential responses to a Russian invasion. Moody highlights the fears and resilience of the Estonian people while discussing what the West can learn about defense from the region's precarious situation. The conversation also touches on personal security in today's shifting geopolitical landscape, blending serious topics with a dash of humor.
27:12
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Quick takeaways
- Estonia's historical fears of Russian aggression shape its national identity and drive its preparations for potential military conflict.
- NATO's increased military presence in the Baltic region reflects growing concerns about American commitment and the need for collective security against Russia.
Deep dives
The Significance of the Putitsa Convent
The Putitsa Convent in Estonia represents a unique and symbolic flashpoint in escalating tensions between NATO and Russia. Located near the Russian border, this convent is one of the few Russian Orthodox sites that survived Soviet persecution, making it a significant symbol for national identity and religious culture in Estonia. Recent discussions highlight that the Estonian government's intention to dissolve the Russian Orthodox Church could provoke a military response from Russia. This situation is compounded by President Putin's historical grievances against Estonia, potentially framing any military action as a defense of religious freedom for Russian speakers in the region.
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