Vilnius: Three Baltic states-Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia-have officially disconnected from the Soviet-era grid and successfully integrated into the European energy system. This significant transition took place on Sunday, marking a new chapter in the region's energy independence and cooperation with the European Union.

According to Anadolu Agency, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia have now joined the European continental network through Poland, aligning themselves with the EU's internal energy market. The European Commission announced this development, highlighting that it enables the Baltic states to manage their energy systems under common and transparent European rules. This strategic move not only enhances the security of supply for the entire Union but also supports the integration of renewable energy, potentially reducing energy costs for consumers.

The European Commission described the integration of the Baltic states into the EU's electricity grid as a "flagship project," which has received substantial political, technical, and financial backing from the Commission over the past 15 years. During a ceremony held in Vilnius, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of this integration, noting that the last electricity grids in Europe that were still connected to Russia are now fully synchronized with Europe's internal energy market. This achievement was supported by over 1 billion euros of European funding over the years.

Von der Leyen also announced that the remaining electricity lines connected to Russia and Belarus will be dismantled, further solidifying the Baltic states' integration into the European energy framework.