Dear fellow Estonian Americans and friends,

We want to share an update on what your advocacy efforts have helped to achieve.

Your calls and emails to Congress about H.R. 10076, the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 made a difference. In response to Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine, the sanctions seek to weaken Moscow’s ability to finance its war and increase economic pressure to help bring the conflict to an end. The Act authorizes sanctions on Russian financial institutions, energy exports, and the Shadow Fleet, as well as tariffs of up to 100% on major purchasers of Russian oil and gas. The House passed the bill on September 16, and it has been signed into law by the President!

Earlier this year, many of us also contacted our elected officials after reports that the Pentagon would remove 4,000 U.S. troops and equipment from Poland, with likely additional reductions in Lithuania. We can now share some encouraging news: two U.S. Army battalions are scheduled to arrive in Lithuania in late October as part of regular troop rotations, along with a rotational unit arriving in Estonia in November.

This is welcome news—but it is also a reminder that we need to remain engaged and vigilant. Please continue to make your voices heard with our Members of Congress, who, after all, work for us!

Our next task: Let the Administration know that you support the quick implementation of the now-authorized sanctions, along with other actions to strengthen Europe in the face of continuing and relentless Russian aggression and harassment. Urge the Administration to continue supporting Ukraine and the Baltics, including reinforcing, rather than drawing down, U.S. troop strength in this critical part of the world. It is critical that the United States be a full partner in presenting a strong and united message of defense and deterrence.

We will continue to keep you updated on issues affecting our community, and we encourage you to stay engaged and informed. Thank you for speaking up for Baltic security and defense!

Your emails and calls have made a difference. Please continue to stay actively engaged.