Lithuania Defends Public Warnings Amidst Russian Provocation Concerns

Lithuanian Defense Minister R. Kaunas has defended the government's decision to inform the public about potential Russian provocations, asserting that the aim is to raise awareness rather than instill fear. This stance comes in response to criticism from opposition party leader Laurynas Kasčiūnas, who suggested that frequent air raid alerts could lead to public desensitization and a lack of response when a real threat emerges.

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Information is provided not to scare the public, but to inform them so they do not react carelessly.

Kaunas explained that providing information about air raid warnings and shelter locations is crucial for public preparedness. He emphasized that citizens need to know how to react in various situations, such as seeking safety in designated areas, without succumbing to panic. The minister highlighted that intelligence reports, shared by U.S. and Polish counterparts, indicate Russia is contemplating provocations in the Baltic region. These actions, he believes, are intended to intimidate the public and undermine NATO's support for Ukraine.

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So that when we receive reports of air danger, we react, we know where the shelters are, how to behave in each situation, that we know to avoid windows and go to areas with double walls.

Recent intelligence suggests Russia might use Ukrainian drones for such operations, creating a "false flag" scenario. Despite these concerns, Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius has sought to reassure the public, stating that the threat level has not drastically changed and that the state is prepared for potential scenarios. Lithuania has increased security at strategic sites, including the Klaipėda LNG terminal and power infrastructure, following earlier reports of possible Russian operations against Baltic critical infrastructure.

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We are simply very honestly confirming and explaining that we have such information, that Russia is considering such possibilities as attempts to intimidate and weaken the support of NATO countries for Ukraine.