Lithuanian president urges calm as nation fortifies Russian border

Nexus Europa Newsroom
Posted Oct 20, 2026, 09:30 AM UTC · In the digest of 2026-10-20-0930
Lithuanian president urges calm as nation fortifies Russian border
Photo: 15min

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has reassured citizens regarding border reinforcements with Russia, while pointing to gaps in air defense and internal military friction.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has called on citizens to remain calm following the deployment of military forces along the country's border with Russia. Nausėda defended the proactive steps, stating, "It is better to take additional security measures in good time to prevent risks than to react belatedly."

Addressing broader security concerns, the president acknowledged that Lithuania's air defense capabilities remain incomplete and noted delays in joint drone manufacturing initiatives with Ukraine. Nausėda also criticized internal friction within the defense establishment, warning that recent ministry controversies could cause long-term damage to public trust. Additionally, he highlighted infrastructure vulnerabilities exposed by recent severe weather.

Sources: 15min, LSM.

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