Lithuania, a NATO and EU member bordering Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave and Belarus, perceives a rising military threat from Russia over the next 3-5 years, informed by Russia’s military buildup and use of force in Ukraine. Lithuanian Vice-minister of National Defence Karolis Aleksa emphasized the Kremlin’s intent to reshape European security by force. Lithuania has seen an intensified NATO presence since 2022, with permanent deployment of a German brigade planned by 2027, alongside ongoing US troop presence and contributions from the Netherlands and Norway across land, air, and maritime domains. Lithuania is rapidly upgrading infrastructure to host these forces and enhance air defense capabilities. Nationally, Lithuania aims to establish a fully operational national division by 2030, investing billions euros in tanks, CV90 infantry fighting vehicles, German and French artillery, and US HIMARS rocket artillery to ensure interoperability with NATO. The Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union, a volunteer force similar to a national guard, has nearly doubled in membership to 18,000, illustrating societal commitment to defense. Defence spending is about 5% of GDP in 2026, and public support for NATO forces and military investment remains high. Lithuania also addresses hybrid threats like cyberattacks, disinformation, and sabotage, particularly from Russia and Belarus, investing in cyber defense and societal resilience. The EU supports Lithuania via substantial funding (up to €6.3 billion by 2030) and regulatory reforms to boost defense industry and military mobility. Lithuania continues strong military and production support for Ukraine, considering its resistance the first line of defense for Europe. Lithuanian officials urge persistent deterrence efforts and caution against complacency, emphasizing that preparedness and collective defense are essential to counter revisionist powers.
Category: Military & Paramilitary Operations
Subcategory: Conventional Military Pressure
Country: Lithuania
Source report: www.euronews.com/my-europe…
