News: Russia launches wanted notices against Baltic officials
Russia recently issued search cards against several Baltic politicians, including Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. These wanted notices are justified by decisions perceived as an insult to History according to the Kremlin. Although symbolic, they aim to reaffirm the unique historical vision promoted by Russia.
Also among the sought-after figures are Estonian State Secretary Taimar Peterkop and Lithuanian Culture Minister Simonas Kairys. They are accused of destroying and defacing monuments honoring Soviet soldiers of the Second World War.
However, these wanted notices are widely seen as provocations and insults to the Baltic countries, which are independent and autonomous. According to Cécile Vaissié, historian specializing in Russian and Soviet studies, these wanted notices are a way for Russia to remind that these countries come under its legislation and that they are still part, in some way, of the Russian Empire.
It is important to note that these wanted notices are not a new thing from Russia. They have already been issued against Russian and foreign citizens such as the writer Boris Akunin, known for condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
In fact, more than 96,000 people are on Russia’s wanted list, many of them Ukrainians due to the ongoing conflict. Among them are politicians, members of civil society and even farmers, all accused of various offenses related to supporting terrorism, participating in war or making public statements against the Russian government.
These wanted notices demonstrate Russia’s desire to control historical discourse and repress any dissenting voice, even abroad. It is therefore crucial to remain vigilant in the face of these restrictions on freedom of expression and to support the Baltic countries in their assertion of their independence and autonomy.