Lithuanian president urges calm over troop deployments near Russian border

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has urged citizens not to panic following the deployment of additional troops along the country's border with Russia, describing the move as a necessary preventive measure against potential security risks and provocations.

In a wide-ranging interview, Nausėda emphasized that "it is better to observe even excessive caution" than to react after an incident occurs. He acknowledged several ongoing defense challenges, including air defense limitations and delays in establishing joint drone production initiatives with Ukraine. The president also addressed internal friction between Lithuania's Ministry of National Defense and military leadership, noting that controversy surrounding a ministry social event could inflict long-term reputational harm.

Sources: 15min, LSM