Lithuanian Defense Minister: After failures in Ukraine, Russia seeks new targets in the Baltics

Lithuanian Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas announced on Monday that Russian President Vladimir Putin, failing to secure decisive gains in the war against Ukraine, is now looking for other ways to demonstrate military power, considering the Baltic states and Poland as potential next targets.

In an interview with Lithuanian public radio, Kaunas stated that the war in Ukraine is not progressing as Russia planned – they cannot win, and inside Russia there are explosions and fuel shortages. Russian society is already questioning the Kremlin about the promised victory.

The minister emphasized that Lithuania analyzes intelligence daily and coordinates actions with allies to prevent possible hybrid attacks. He highlighted Russia's aggressive rhetoric, unfounded accusations against the Baltic states, and provocative behavior.

Kaunas stressed that Lithuania does not provoke Russia in any way, but as a sovereign state and a member of NATO and the European Union, it chooses to strengthen its defense, its army, and deepen integration with civilized Western countries. He believes this should not provoke Russia.