“We are taking a bold step to sever Russia’s grip on our electricity system, eliminating its use as a tool for geopolitical intimidation,” declared Lithuanian Energy Minister Zygimantas Vaiciunas with determination.
In a significant move, the three Baltic nations will operate independently for around 24 hours, before linking up with the EU grid through Poland on Sunday. “We need to conduct crucial tests to reassure Europe that our energy system is robust and reliable,” stated Rokas Masiulis, the head of Lithuania’s state-owned grid operator, Litgrid. Notably, Lithuania was the first of the Baltic states to disconnect from the Russian grid, doing so at 7:43 a.m. local time (05:43 GMT).
This long-planned integration with the European grid has gained tremendous momentum, particularly in the wake of Moscow’s annexation of Crimea in 2014. The urgency intensified further after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, highlighting the country’s leverage as a significant supplier of oil, gas, and power, which had caused an energy crunch across Europe. This pivotal shift marks a new chapter in the region’s energy independence and stability.
