Lithuania's prime minister says country ready to defend against Russian threats and has evacuation plans

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Arūnas Sinkevičius told BBC Newsnight that many citizens in the Baltic state feel “constantly threatened” by Moscow’s actions, underscoring a growing sense of insecurity in the region. He said the perception is driven by recent Russian military drills near the border, heightened rhetoric from Moscow, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has amplified fears of potential aggression toward neighboring countries. Sinkevičius emphasized that despite these concerns, Lithuania remains resolute and prepared to “fight back” if an attack materializes, highlighting the nation’s commitment to its defense capabilities and its integration within NATO’s collective security framework.

The minister’s remarks come as Lithuania continues to bolster its military readiness, including increased spending on modern equipment and joint exercises with allied forces. Warsaw and Riga have similarly voiced apprehensions about Russian intentions, prompting coordinated diplomatic efforts within the European Union to reinforce deterrence. While the Lithuanian government stresses the importance of diplomatic channels, it also signals a clear stance that any violation of its sovereignty would be met with a decisive response, reflecting a broader regional resolve to counter perceived threats from Moscow.