Fact Check: "A 2014 maritime treaty between Russia and Estonia remains unratified."
What We Know
The claim that the 2014 maritime treaty between Russia and Estonia remains unratified is supported by several sources. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Estonia and Russia have had ongoing territorial disputes, particularly concerning the maritime boundaries in the Gulf of Finland and the Gulf of Narva. In February 2014, both countries signed a treaty aimed at delineating these maritime zones; however, as of now, the treaty has not been ratified by either party (Estonian–Russian territorial dispute, Estonia–Russia Maritime Boundary).
The Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu) ratified the related border treaty in 2005, but Russia subsequently withdrew from the agreement, stating it would not participate in the border treaties due to concerns over Estonia's references to historical treaties that could imply territorial claims (Estonian–Russian territorial dispute). Since then, the maritime treaty signed in 2014 has remained in a state of limbo, with no ratification occurring on either side (Estonia marks the anniversary of the Tartu Peace Treaty).
Analysis
The evidence surrounding the claim is clear and consistent across multiple credible sources. The Estonian–Russian territorial dispute provides a historical context that explains the complexities of the treaties and the ongoing tensions between the two nations. The source indicates that the 2014 treaty was signed but has not been ratified, which aligns with the claim being evaluated.
Moreover, the Estonia–Russia Maritime Boundary source confirms that the treaty remains unratified due to "long-standing political tensions," which adds weight to the assertion that the treaty is effectively stalled. The lack of ratification is not merely a procedural issue but is deeply rooted in the historical and political context of Estonia's relationship with Russia.
While some sources, such as Moscow: Border treaty won't be ratified if Estonia doesn't change conduct, highlight Russia's stance on the matter, they do not contradict the claim. Instead, they reinforce the notion that political dynamics are a significant barrier to ratification.
The sources used are credible, with the primary one being a Wikipedia entry that compiles information from various historical and political analyses. Additionally, the maritime boundary source is specialized, focusing on sovereign limits, which adds to its reliability.
Conclusion
The claim that the 2014 maritime treaty between Russia and Estonia remains unratified is True. The evidence from multiple sources confirms that despite the treaty being signed, it has not been ratified by either country due to ongoing political tensions and historical disputes.
