Gaza: Lithuania is updating its national security strategy to address potential threats from Russia, as reported by public broadcaster LRT. The revised strategy highlights an existential threat, emphasizing the possibility of Russia being capable of waging war against NATO by the decade's end. It stresses the importance of preparing both the state and society for potential wartime scenarios.
According to Anadolu Agency, the strategy underscores Lithuania's defense priorities, focusing on armed defense, the establishment of a military division, and enhancing national resilience. It also highlights the importance of allied deterrence, particularly emphasizing the presence of US forces in the region. Karolis Aleksa, Lithuania's vice defense minister, noted that the strategy identifies the US military presence as a crucial element of Lithuania's security, despite Washington's calls for Europe to assume more responsibility for its defense.
Lithuania, a former Soviet republic with an estimated population of 3 million, is significantly smaller than its neighbor Russia, which has a population of over 143 million. Security concerns among states bordering Russia, especially smaller ones, have intensified since the onset of the Ukraine war in February 2022.