Lithuania is on high alert as Russian military activity intensifies
Russia continues its attempts to control the Baltic Sea and the entire region, causing concern among neighbouring countries. The head of the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence, Raimundas Vaikšnoras, is concerned about Russia's increased military activity, especially in the Kaliningrad region. He also called for "support for Ukraine."
23 August 2024 09:19
Russian control over the Baltic Sea region and worrying military moves in the Kaliningrad region are raising growing concerns among Baltic countries. The head of the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence, Raimundas Vaikšnoras, emphasizes the need to remain vigilant about these actions. He points out that the Kaliningrad region, which has become a key point of Russian military operations since the beginning of the war, is particularly important.
Lithuanian Armed Forces Commander Raimundas Vaikšnoras recounted that as soon as the war in Ukraine started, Lihuanian took a note of a lot of equipment, machinery, (...) and some soldiers transferred from Kaliningrad. However, after rotation, they returned. Now they see a significant reduction, at least in land forces.
The commander also indicated that the Ukrainian offensive had a direct impact on the deployment of Russian troops, including those stationed in the Kaliningrad region, strategically located between Poland and Lithuania.
Despite the reduction in ground forces, Vaikšnoras warns against underestimating the threat. The Russians still have advanced air defence systems A2/AD, which provide strong cover and allow control over the airspace above the Baltic Sea and surrounding areas. Therefore, Lithuania must be ready for any eventuality and constantly monitor the situation.
"We must use this time to strengthen our forces"
The head of the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence also emphasized the importance of solidarity and cooperation with Ukraine. In the face of Russian aggression, Lithuania and other Western countries should intensify their support for Ukraine.
While Ukrainians fight for our freedom, so that we, the people of the West, can have a good life, we must use this time to strengthen our forces and support Ukrainians as much as we can, so they can defeat the Russians, not just in Ukraine but also in Russia, which is currently happening, he emphasised.
Ukraine responds to Russia
In the context of the ongoing Ukrainian offensive, a particularly significant event was the recent strike on the Kursk region on August 6 at 2:00 PM Eastern Time. The Ukrainian armed forces continue their actions, pushing the front line deeper into Russian territory.
One of the most significant successes was the destruction of Russian fighter jets at Savasleika Airport, located about 350 kilometres from Moscow. This shows that the Ukrainian offensive is not limited to defending its own borders but is becoming increasingly effective in attacking strategic targets on Russian territory.
These events show how dynamically the situation is changing on Europe's eastern flank. Lithuania, as a neighbour of Russia, must be particularly vigilant and prepared for all scenarios, strengthening its defence forces and supporting Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty.