The Baltic states are strengthening their cybersecurity defenses as they prepare to disconnect from the Soviet-era power grid shared with Russia and Belarus on February 9. Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia will end their participation in the BRELL network and join the European Union's electricity system instead.
Security officials across the Baltic region anticipate potential retaliation from Moscow following the switch. Estonia's Cyber Security Centre has mobilized its cyber reserve forces, including volunteer defenders from the Estonian Defence League. The center maintains round-the-clock expert support and coordinates closely with Latvia and Lithuania on addressing possible threats.
Energy companies have implemented strict security measures ahead of the transition. Estonia's state power grid operator Elering has restricted virtual private network access for external maintenance contractors. Lithuanian authorities have installed anti-drone systems and physical barriers around key infrastructure sites.
Cybersecurity experts warn that Russian state-backed hacking groups pose a serious threat. These groups have previously targeted Ukraine's power grid and expanded operations across Eastern Europe. Google's threat intelligence indicates that elite Russian hacking units like Sandworm are actively probing regional networks.
The Baltic states are also dealing with suspected Russian interference with undersea energy and data cables in the Baltic Sea. Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal suggested these incidents may be Moscow's way of pressuring its neighbors. Despite these challenges, Baltic leaders remain committed to the transition, citing Russia's unreliability as a partner.
Lithuanian Energy Minister Žygimantas Vaičiūnas expects a smooth switchover but confirmed that authorities have prepared contingency plans for various scenarios. The coordinated move away from the Russian grid marks a major step in the Baltic states' efforts to strengthen their energy independence and security infrastructure.