The Baltic countries decided to divide the project into two phases. The first, costing 15 billion euros, will have a single track instead of a double track by 2030 and will focus on the most important train stops.

The second track and additional stations are to be completed as part of a second phase with no specific completion date at this time.

Soaring costs have pushed states to scale back some of their ambitions.

“We can further reduce the scope of the first phase, for example by connecting Riga airport at a later stage,” said Andris Kulbergs, who chairs a Latvian parliamentary commission investigating the project.

As billions of euros for the first phase still need to be secured, this may be necessary.

Estonian auditor Janar Holm estimates that it will take several more years: “We have to find the funds to build this railway now, otherwise it will cost even more.”

The country’s Infrastructure Minister Vladimir Svet insisted that “we are reducing the budget as much as possible, we have streamlined the public procurement process and, if necessary, we will take out a loan.”

“If we want to preserve our culture and feel secure in our freedom, there is no other way than to be part of a strong EU, NATO and international community that supports the right international,” he added.

For the three Baltic states that broke free from the Soviet Union and want to join the EU and NATO, Rail Baltica could serve as a lifeline – if it can stay on track.