DISINFO: The Baltics have lost industry, agriculture, and population as a result of EU membership
SUMMARY
As a result of their membership in the EU, the Baltic States have lost industry and agriculture and a third of their populations. During Soviet times, the Baltic republics where certain showcases; their cultural levels were improved thanks to other Soviet peoples. The Baltic States’ establishments thought this would continue to be the case. Instead, they have again returned to the boondocks, the place that they always had in Europe.
RESPONSE
This case is consistent with recurring pro-Kremlin narratives about socio-economic degradation in the Baltic States as opposed to their alleged well-being under the USSR. In fact, the economic situation of all three Baltic States is strong and demonstrates some of the leading economic growth indicators in the EU. The dynamics over the past years are available here.
See similar disinformation cases about the Baltic States alleging that Latvia is a US vassal state, that Lithuania is a "typical dying young democracy", that decaying Latvia and Lithuania envy Belarus its strategic relations with Russia, and that the Baltic States are dying because they chose not to be with Russia.