VILNIUS - The publication of a new book about the Soviet occupation has sparked debate, with opposition Conservatives questioning whether the publication attempts to "rewrite history." The Conservatives were alarmed by the words of Lithuanian Ambassador to Russia Rimantas Sidlauskas, who said the publication, compiled by historians from both countries, would reflect the views of both countries during the events of 1939-1940.
As the Conservatives (Homeland Union) said in a press release, "Fears that we have expressed in public on several occasions are becoming a reality. There are attempts to involve Lithuania in a discussion about things that are already obvious to the entire world." The press release continues: "There is an impression that the Lithuanian side is following the instruction of [Russian President Vladimir] Putin to leave history for inquiries of scientists. According to the information, the book with 'two truths' will be published 's as if an assessment of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Act never took place and the later events were never unearthed and assessed in legal terms."
The Conservatives asked outgoing Foreign Minister Antanas Valionis to explain the role of the ministry in the publication, to identify sponsors and persons representing Lithuania's side of the historical arguments, and to explain whether Lithuanians would be briefed on key provisions of the book before it is published. In response, Valionis called the Conservatives' fears "groundless." He stressed that this was an opportunity to show Russians how certain events are perceived by Lithuania.
"Lithuania's view of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Act is clear, and therefore we have no reason to be afraid of an open discussion with historians from Russia or any other country. I think that instead of posing obstacles, we should strive to provide the Russian public with as much access to the works of Lithuanian historians as possible," Valionis told the Baltic News Service on May 17.
The Social Liberal member was astonished by the Conservatives' doubts as to whether the book would present the "correct" historical analysis of the Soviet occupation.
"In Lithuania, we no longer need to discus history among ourselves. We should rather make efforts for the history of our nation to be known around the world to as much extent as possible. I would rely on Lithuanian historians' ability to understand Lithuania's interests," Valionis said. Russia has so far refused to condemn the fact that the Soviets occupied the Baltic states. Since Vladimir Putin was elected president, the Kremlin has claimed that the occupation and annexation of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia was "voluntary accession to the Soviet Union."
