In the context of Russia’s war against Ukraine and the increased threat Russia poses to Europe, the strategic importance of the Baltic Sea region has grown considerably. This is reflected in Finland and Sweden’s accession to the North Atlantic Alliance. On one hand, the region can be seen as particularly vulnerable to further Russian aggression. On the other hand, it also serves as a source of important initiatives aimed at increasing the defense and resilience of EU nations and societies.

In this spirit, we present a selection of articles prepared in cooperation with New Eastern Europe magazine, in which this very topic is the central theme of issue 4/2025.