Lithuanian president urges calm as border security measures expand

Nexus Europa Newsroom
Posted Oct 17, 2026, 09:30 PM UTC · In the digest of 2026-10-17-2130
Lithuanian president urges calm as border security measures expand
Photo: 15min

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has urged calm regarding increased border security with Russia while acknowledging air defense gaps and drone production delays.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has urged citizens not to give in to fear regarding expanded military presence and fortification efforts along the border with Russia. Emphasizing early preparation, Nausėda stated that "it is better to take additional security measures in good time to prevent risks than to react belatedly."

In addition to border security, Nausėda addressed broader national security challenges, acknowledging gaps in Lithuania's air defense capabilities and delays in joint drone manufacturing projects with Ukraine. He also noted internal friction between the Ministry of National Defense and military leadership, while warning that a recent scandal surrounding a defense ministry event would inflict long-lasting damage on public trust.

Sources: 15min, LSM

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