This document summarizes a September 1, 1995, meeting between Acting US Secretary of State Strobe Talbott and Estonian Prime Minister Tiit Vähi. They discussed Estonia’s desire for normalized relations with Russia, concerns over border negotiations and military pensioners, and threats from Russian officials regarding NATO cooperation. Talbott reaffirmed U.S. support for Estonia’s sovereignty, border resolution efforts, and potential future NATO membership, while also addressing U.S. concerns about press freedom and a defense procurement matter.

An analysis of upcoming elections in Lithuania and Estonia which will strengthen Baltic independence movements.

An analysis of the Baltic governments' actions despite Soviet Central Committee condemnation.

An analysis of further efforts to institutionalize republic sovereignty by Baltic states.

Officials express concern about the Soviet Union's aggressive actions toward Lithuania.

Later referred to as the "Welles Declaration," this statement by acting Secretary of State Sumner Welles condemned the 1940 Soviet occupation of the Baltic states and set United States policy of refusing to recognize the new Soviet governments of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.