Lithuanian Defense Minister: Russia, Unable to Win in Ukraine, Looks for New Targets in Baltics and Poland

Lithuanian Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas said on Monday in an interview with Lithuanian public radio that Russia, unable to achieve its goals in the war in Ukraine, is seeking new opportunities for military successes, considering the Baltic states and Poland as the nearest targets.

According to Kaunas, the war in Ukraine is not proceeding as Russia planned, and within Russia itself there are explosions, fuel shortages, and the public is beginning to question the Kremlin regime, asking where the promised victory is. This internal tension, in his view, may push Russia to seek successes elsewhere.

The minister noted that to prevent possible hybrid attacks, Lithuania analyzes intelligence information daily and coordinates actions with allies. He emphasized that Lithuania does not provoke Russia in any way but, as a sovereign state and a member of NATO and the EU, strengthens its defense and army, and deepens integration with Western countries.

Last week, similar warnings were issued by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda and Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs during the latter's state visit to Lithuania.