Lithuanian PM reassures public on potential Russian provocations

Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius has urged the public not to panic amid intelligence suggesting Russia may be planning provocations in the Baltic region. He stated that while a certain level of threat exists, particularly due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, the situation has not drastically changed and citizens should not experience additional fear.

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All information that is stated publicly must be very strongly measured, we must not scare the public.

Sinkevičius explained that Lithuania's intelligence services possess information about potential actions by 'unfriendly countries,' but stressed the importance of measured communication to avoid alarming the public. He assured that state institutions are quietly preparing for possible scenarios and will respond adequately. "We have our institutions, intelligence, which presents to leaders, ministers, those who have the right to access secret information, what unfriendly countries plan or possibly plan for us," Sinkevičius told reporters in Vilnius.

Concerns were heightened by reports from the Minister of National Defence, Arvydas Anušauskas, indicating that Russia is considering provocations, potentially targeting critical infrastructure in the Baltic states. Anušauskas suggested Russia might employ Ukrainian drones to stage 'false flag' operations, making it appear as though another country is responsible. Lithuania had already intensified security measures for strategic objects, including the Klaipėda LNG terminal and the 'LitPol Link' power connection, in late July.

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The state not only monitors but also protects these facilities.

"The state not only monitors but also protects these facilities," Sinkevičius stated, adding that he has personally inquired about the protection of critical infrastructure and received assurances that work is being done discreetly. He aims to be personally informed about the readiness to defend these key points against potential incidents. The Prime Minister reiterated that while threats exist, the state is actively working to ensure security without unnecessary public escalation.

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We have our institutions, intelligence, which presents to leaders, ministers, those who have the right to access secret information, what unfriendly countries plan or possibly plan for us.