Empty Streets, 'Dragon's Teeth,' and Challenges for Border Guards at Lithuania's Russian Border

Lithuania's smallest town, Panemunė, is grappling with the realities of its location near the Russian border, experiencing unique challenges amplified by the current geopolitical climate. Since April 2022, vehicle traffic has been suspended at the Panemunė–Sovetsk crossing, transforming the border into a pedestrian-only zone. This restriction forces residents and travelers alike to carry all their possessions by hand or on their shoulders when crossing between Lithuania and the Russian exclave of Sovetsk. The town, which notably lacks its own municipal administrative unit, finds itself in a precarious position. 'Delfi' visited Panemunė to understand the daily life and struggles of its inhabitants under these conditions. The report delves into how the tense geopolitical situation impacts this small community, highlighting the resilience and adaptation required in such an environment. The presence of 'dragon's teeth' anti-tank obstacles further underscores the heightened security measures and the palpable tension at this sensitive border point.