[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 81 (Friday, June 23, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S5733]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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   CONGRATULATING ESTONIA ON THE EIGHTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF VICTORY DAY

 Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, June 23rd marks the 80th 
anniversary of Voidhupuha, or Victory Day, recalling Estonia's break 
from Russian control in 1920. On this holiday, Estonians commemorate 
the battles during the War of Independence in which military forces 
fought to regain Baltic control over the region. On Victory Day 
Estonians also celebrate the contributions of all who have fought for 
the cause of independence throughout their country's history.
  Many lives were lost for the cause of Estonian independence. Three 
battles, Roopa, Venden-Ronnenberg, and finally Vonnu were the turning 
points that ultimately led to the defeat of the opposing army. The 
Tartu Peace Treaty in 1920 marked the end of centuries of struggle and 
finally granted independence to Estonia.
  On Victory Day, Estonians also remember those who battled against the 
Nazis and the Soviets. From 1944 until 1991 the Soviets again occupied 
Estonia, and during this time those who voiced opinions against the 
government were typically sentenced to 25 years in a Gulag prison, and 
5 years in exile. The designation of June 23rd as Victory Day signifies 
that all those involved in the crusade for freedom are remembered for 
their efforts, and that their messages live on.
  Estonia has become a strong independent country since 1991 when it 
again rid itself of Soviet occupation. It is a free-market economy and 
has established a rule of law.
  This year we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the refusal by the 
United States to recognize Soviet domination of the Baltic states. The 
recognition of Estonia as free and independent is positive, but does 
not go far enough. What we celebrate this year is what we must help to 
preserve next year and the year after that. We must be sure that 
Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia are admitted into NATO as an unequivocal 
statement of the West's support for Baltic freedom and independence.
  Being the son of a Lithuanian immigrant myself, I take great pride in 
the accomplishments of the Baltic states. I support admitting the 
Baltic states into NATO and I hope my colleagues here in the Senate 
will support their entry also in the next round of NATO expansion.
  That debate we will save for another day, but I am sure all of my 
colleagues can agree on the importance of Estonia's struggle for 
freedom and independence, and will join me in congratulating Estonia on 
the 80th anniversary of Victory Day.

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