“Lithuania is updating its national security strategy, which warns of an existential threat and that Russia may be capable of launching a war against NATO by the end of the decade.”, — write: www.pravda.com.ua
Illustrative photo: Getty Images Source: LRT, “European Truth”
Details: The revised strategy notes that Lithuania’s security environment has deteriorated dramatically and emphasizes that the main pillars of the country’s defense are its armed forces, societal resilience and allies.
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It emphasizes the need to prepare the state and society for defense in war conditions.
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine four years ago reinforced assessments that were already included in Lithuania’s previous security strategy, approved just two months before the invasion, Deputy Defense Minister Karolis Aleksa said.
“The invasion only emphasized what had already been determined. The strategy could have been revised even then,” Alexa said.
Former and current lawmakers said the previous document has not lost its relevance, noting that it placed a strong emphasis on comprehensive defense, including the creation of territorial defense units and the strengthening of the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union.
However, the updated strategy differs in that it clearly defines an existential threat to the state. Alexa said the assessment reflects Russia’s continued readiness to use military force and its ability to restore combat capabilities despite the war in Ukraine.
“In view of the year 2030, the probability of a military conflict may increase,” he said.
The strategy emphasizes armed defense, building a military division and strengthening national resilience, and emphasizes the importance of deterring allies, including the presence of US forces in the region.
Alexa said the strategy clearly identifies the US military presence as a cornerstone of Lithuania’s security, even as Washington has urged Europe to take more responsibility for its own defense.
The updated strategy envisages that defense spending should be between 5% and 6% of GDP. Lithuania’s defense budget is expected to exceed 5% next year.
The revised national security strategy will be reviewed by the State Defense Council and must be approved by the parliament.
Meanwhile, German military planners warn that cyberattacks, acts of sabotage and disinformation campaigns could mark the beginning of a new war.
We will remind, in the middle of December, Denmark officially accused Russia in a cyber attack on critical and electoral infrastructure.