On-going project // Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 marked a new chapter for European security, particularly for the Baltic states and Poland, which increased defense measures in preparation for potential further escalations from Putin.

In Northeastern Poland, the Suwałki Corridor, a 60-100 km stretch of land, has become a key geopolitical focus. This corridor is the only land link between the Baltic states and the rest of NATO, making it a symbolic and practical battleground for NATO and Russia’s competing interests. Its significance extends beyond geography, symbolizing a broader struggle for influence and security in Eastern Europe.

My journey begins in Vilnius, Lithuania, where the war in Ukraine heavily concerns the population, given Lithuania’s shared borders with Russia’s Kaliningrad enclave and Belarus. Vaidota, a survival store owner, recalls empty shelves and people buying weapons for self-defense. Paulius, a taxi driver, describes how Lithuanians fear Russian aggression, stating, "If Putin wants the country, he will get it."

In 2023, Lithuania hosted the NATO summit, and the following year, Defense Minister Pistorius sent German troops to Lithuania, marking a significant step in NATO’s presence in the region. The German-led multinational battlegroup in Rukla, Lithuania, includes 1,700 soldiers. Lithuania and Poland also expanded and modernized their borders to prevent illegal crossings from Belarus.

Suwałki, the namesake city of the Suwałki Corridor, is home to 60,000 people. I meet Maja and Maria, two young scouts volunteering to help refugees. Maja recalls the fear after the war began, with Poland also at risk of attack. While the intensity of their involvement has decreased over time, they continue to assist Ukrainian refugees.

In July 2024, reports indicate Poland’s plan to station 17,000 soldiers at its borders with Belarus and Kaliningrad to enhance security. The situation remains uncertain.