Abstract
ABSTRACTThis paper focuses on two assumptions oft discussed in the academic literature: that the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC), the Moscow Patriarchate, and Patriarch Kirill are part and parcel of the Kremlin’s regional strategy, and that the Orthodox Churches in Eastern Europe (particularly those in former Soviet states), are appendages to the Russian Orthodox Church and also part of the Kremlin’s regional strategy, effectively creating fifth columns for the Kremlin. There is extensive academic literature debating both assumptions, particularly as regards Georgia’s and Ukraine’s relations with Russia. However, these two are not the only states on the frontlines of Russian-Western geostrategic tensions. The Baltic States, as members of both the EU and NATO, are equally vital and possibly even more so. As the English-language academic literature concerning the relationship between the Kremlin, the ROC, and the Baltic States is limited, this paper attempts to further that conversation and asks whether, by more openly embracing Baltic Orthodox churches, the Baltic governments could limit Kremlin strategic influence in the region.
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