Baltic turbulence: is Russia reassessing its maritime boundaries?.

According to information published by the Moscow Times on May 22, 2024, the Russian government recently hinted at a need for reassessment of its maritime boundaries in the Baltic Sea.
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Map of the Baltic Sea maritime boundaries. (Picture source: Oko Planet)

A document proposing a review of the maritime boundaries in the Baltic Sea was briefly posted on the Ministry of Defense's website. It has caused unease among NATO neighbors.

Lithuania’s Foreign Minister quickly labeled the move an escalation against NATO and the EU, demanding a firm response.

The Ministry of Defense argues that the coordinates of Russia’s coastal and island boundaries in the Baltic Sea, defined in 1985, are outdated. Proposed changes would affect the eastern Gulf of Finland and areas around Baltiysk and Zelenogradsk, redefining the maritime boundary to integrate these waters as internal maritime waters.

Russia plans to submit the revised maps to the UN Secretary-General without seeking agreement from neighboring countries. Boundary adjustments would involve areas around several islands and coastal regions.

This proposal has prompted accusations of provocation and hybrid aggression from Finland and Lithuania. Sweden has expressed significant concern, fearing that Russia’s ambitions may extend beyond maritime boundary adjustments.

Swedish military officials have voiced concerns over potential Russian intentions to control the Baltic Sea, including strategic islands. In response, Sweden has increased its military presence and alerted its allies.

Context

This publication comes at a time of heightened tensions in the region, with increased military activities and naval exercises by both NATO and Russian forces. The Baltic Sea is a vital corridor for trade and military movements, making the delineation of maritime boundaries a matter of strategic importance.

The new boundaries proposed by Russia could potentially limit the navigational freedoms of other Baltic states and NATO allies, raising concerns about freedom of navigation and overflight.