Let’s jump into the pits of hell, shall we? Nah, I’m just
kidding. I think you guys know by now just how brutal the USSR was not only for
those under Russia’s rule, but also for Russia himself, as he’s always
struggled with chronic loneliness and making ‘friends.’

Political revolts aimed at gaining independence were
supressed through the use of force, dissenters were sent to gulags, and alcoholism
was rampant. That said, it’s no wonder that the Baltic nations were referred to
as the “Trembling Trio.” Anyone in their right mind would be terrified.

Russia, both the nation and personification, ruled with an
iron fist. To gain compliance, he either squeezed shoulders, or in Latvia’s
case, pressed down on the former’s head.

On the other hand,
the psychological damage is the most lasting here. Russia has a warped, child-like
mentality, one where he doesn’t quite understand the consequences or repercussions
of his actions. He uses violence to solve his problems.

When it comes to the damage Russia inflicted, Lithuania and the
cuts on his back immediately comes to mind.

Likewise, we know that Lithuania is still rehabilitating
from his time spent in the USSR.

Surprisingly, what I don’t see people talk about is this notion
of transference. That is, Lithuania has actually adopted some of Russia’s
violent tendencies, albeit unintentionally. You see this play out in chapter 96
of World Stars.

As Estonia gushes about wanting to become a Nordic, Lithuania
urges that they stick together and remain as the Baltic trio, just like they stuck
together when they gained independence from Russia.

Lithuania relives the first memory.Then, he remembers Russia squeezing his shoulders, and, without realizing it, starts squeezing Latvia and Estonia’s shoulders to the point that it causes
them pain. 

In my opinion, Lithuania doesn’t just seem to be experiencing
PTSD here. I honestly think he’s learned some of Russia’s violent tendencies,
not consciously, but more as an unconscious psychological consequence of the trauma
he experienced.

Latvia even asks Lithuania if he’s okay, but Lithuania is unresponsive. Just look at Lithuania’s expression; he’s pretty removed from the situation.

It’s these small, brilliant, and dark details that makes
this series enjoyable to read. Hima is so methodical in how he develops and
evolves his characters. In a single strip you see how unfathomably deep Russia
has hurt Lithuania, in more ways than one.

Just like humans, the nations become products of their
environment.