Letter: Save Baltics from Russian power

Sir: The present discussion on spheres of influence in Europe (" `Silk Curtain' cuts Europe in two once more", 16 March) strikes the Baltic states with horror and trepidation. Under no circumstances should the West agree to the creation of any artificial boundaries in Europe to placate Russia's military. This would only encourage the non-democratic elements in Russia to demand further increases in their sphere of influence.

It is not Russia's prerogative to dictate to nations how they should evolve and it would be much better for her to seek solutions to her own deep internal problems.

Between the wars, at the time of their independence, the Baltic peoples achieved remarkable prosperity, which was lost during Soviet rule. They must have the right to decide on their own whether or not to join the EU or Nato.

Peteris Termanis

London SW16