Lithuanian president defends precautionary troop deployment along Russian border

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has urged the public to remain calm following the deployment of additional military personnel along the border with Russia, framing the action as a necessary preventative measure against potential foreign provocations. Nausėda emphasized that "sometimes it is better to observe even excessive caution" rather than reacting after a security incident has already occurred.

In a wide-ranging discussion on national defense, Nausėda acknowledged persistent shortfalls in Lithuania's air defense capabilities and noted delays in joint drone manufacturing initiatives with Ukraine. The president also criticized internal friction within the defense ministry, warning that recent controversies could inflict lasting reputational damage on the military establishment. Additionally, he cited lessons from recent severe weather events, calling for improved emergency preparedness and critical infrastructure resilience across the country.

Sources: 15min, LSM.