The presidents of Estonia and Lithuania on Monday spurned a Russian invitation to World War Two victory celebrations, risking a diplomatic spat with Moscow and a rift with Baltic neighbour Latvia. Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga had already decided to join other world leaders in Moscow on May 9, sparking anger in Estonia and Lithuania as all three leaders originally planned to issue a joint response to Russia. Many Balts are happy to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany, but also feel the end of the war led to 50 years of Soviet occupation. "As head of state, I have the duty and responsibility to support my people's faith and I can do this best of all if I am with my people on that day," Estonian President Arnold Ruutel told state radio. At the same time, to express solidarity, Lithuanian President Valdas Adamkus delivered a statement at the president's palace. "On May 9 I decided to stay home with the Lithuanian nation," he said. "I sincerely believe the Russian people will understand my decision." Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski said that he would discuss the issue with Adamkus during his visit to neighbouring Lithuania on Wednesday, but reiterated he would join the victory celebrations in Moscow.
