Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Wesley Bell (MO-01), and Salud Carbajal (CA-24) have introduced the Baltic Security Assessment Act of 2025, a bipartisan bill aimed at improving U.S. understanding of security threats facing Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The legislation calls for the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, to submit a detailed report to Congress within 180 days. This report will evaluate military, cyber, hybrid, and political threats from countries such as Russia, China, Iran, Belarus, and North Korea. It will also identify ways to strengthen defense cooperation between the United States and the Baltic states, reinforce NATO’s collective defense posture, improve cybersecurity infrastructure, and enhance democratic resilience in the region.
Rep. Bacon said: “The Baltic nations have witnessed firsthand the reality of Soviet oppression and today stand as beacons of democracy in the face of increasing threats from Russia and its allies. I’m grateful to co-lead the Baltic Security Assessment Act of 2025, which strengthens our commitment to our steadfast allies Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. This bipartisan legislation will improve our understanding of emerging military, cyber, and hybrid threats to the Baltic states through a comprehensive assessment, while reaffirming America’s unwavering support for these vital NATO partners.”
Rep. Bell stated: “Putin’s unprovoked war on Ukraine is a stark reminder that our Baltic allies are on the frontlines of the fight for freedom and democracy. The Baltic Security Assessment Act will give the United States a clear picture of the threats facing Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, and strengthen our ability to support them. This bipartisan bill reinforces NATO’s collective defense and ensures we stand united against those who seek to undermine freedom.”
Rep. Carbajal added: “Russia’s unprovoked war in Ukraine has underscored the urgent need to stand firmly with our Baltic allies. The Baltic Security Assessment Act reinforces our Baltic alliances, bolsters regional stability, and advances our shared security goals.”
Recently there have been several incidents involving Russian military activity near NATO borders. Three Russian jets violated Estonian airspace for 12 minutes last week. Earlier this month twenty Russian drones entered Polish airspace.
Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania joined NATO in 2004 and have played an active role in supporting alliance efforts since then. These countries have faced increased pressure from Russia following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Don Bacon has served as U.S. Representative for Nebraska’s 2nd district since 2017 after replacing Brad Ashford; he was born in Momence, Illinois in 1963 and currently lives in Papillion.
The full text of the bill can be found here.
