Diplomats from the European Union's outer relations gather in Brussels on the 15th and 16th of June.

The Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS) recently concluded its meeting in Porvoo, Finland, marking the end of Finland's CBSS presidency. During the discussions, the need to counter Russia's attempts to destabilize societies using various hybrid means was a central concern.

The Baltic Sea region has historically reflected the conflicts of its time, and today, it remains of great strategic importance for its neighbours. The CBSS, established in 1992 as a German-Danish initiative, has been redefined as a close partnership of values-based countries.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has significantly altered the security situation in the Baltic Sea region. Hybrid threats from Russia, such as disinformation, exploiting migrant suffering at the Belarus border, and disrupting air traffic, are being used as means to destabilize societies. The CBSS states are determined to counter these threats.

Germany is taking concrete responsibility for the region's security by providing air policing in the Baltics and stationing a German brigade in Lithuania. Strengthening crisis preparedness and response capabilities and protecting critical infrastructure are key issues.

The current Finnish presidency in the CBSS has focused on supporting Ukraine. The foreign ministers linked their discussions to the Berlin conference on Ukraine's reconstruction. The Baltic Sea countries reiterated their commitment to stand by and fully support Ukraine.

Estonia will take over as the CBSS presidency on July 1st. The CBSS, during its realignment, has been redefined with a focus on comprehensive security in the Baltic Sea region. The Council includes Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Russia, Sweden, and the European Union as a member organization during Estonia's presidency in 2023.

The Baltic Sea, a strategic location for exchange, fishing, and serving as a gateway to the Atlantic and its global trade routes, has been a site of cooperation and conflict throughout history. The CBSS, with its commitment to values and security, aims to ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for the region.