Russia Seeks New Targets in Baltics as Ukraine War Stalls, Lithuanian Minister Says

Lithuania's Defense Minister Arvydas Anušauskas suggests that Russia is shifting its focus to the Baltic region as its military campaign in Ukraine falters. Anušauskas stated that Russia cannot achieve victory in Ukraine, pointing to internal problems within Russia, such as explosions and fuel shortages, which are causing the Russian public to question the Kremlin's war objectives.

In response to potential hybrid attacks, Lithuania is continuously analyzing intelligence and coordinating actions with its allies. The minister highlighted Russia's aggressive rhetoric and provocative actions toward the Baltic states. He emphasized that Lithuania, as a sovereign nation and a member of NATO and the European Union, is not provoking Russia but is instead strengthening its own defense capabilities and deepening its integration with Western countries.

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As the war in Ukraine is not progressing as Russia had planned, they cannot win, and currently, there are explosions in Russia itself, there is a shortage of fuel... the Russian society is already asking questions to the Kremlin regime, why this is happening and where is the promised victory.

Anušauskas's remarks echo similar warnings issued recently by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda and Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs during his state visit to Lithuania. The shared concern underscores a perceived increase in Russian assertiveness and potential threats beyond Ukraine.

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We are assessing the situation, seeing Russia's aggressive tone, unfounded accusations against the Baltic states and provocative actions. Lithuania, with its actions, does not provoke Russia in any way. We are a sovereign state, a member of NATO and the European Union, and we choose to strengthen our defense, our army, deepen integration with civilized Western countries, and this should not provoke Russia in any way.