Commanders warn of possible Kremlin provocations targeting energy and transport systems, prompting daily military vigilance and fast resource redeployment.
The strengthening of protection of strategic facilities in Lithuania is linked to the risk that the Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin, in a state of despair, may resort to certain measures affecting the country’s critical infrastructure, including the energy sector.
As the commander of the Lithuanian Army, Raimundas Vaikšnoras, stated, in the event of the breakdown or damage of critically important facilities, this would have a significant impact on society and people’s daily lives.
He also noted that such incidents could provoke discontent among the population, but state institutions are working to ensure stability and the safety of citizens.
Due to the threat of possible provocations by Moscow, the Lithuanian army has additionally allocated resources to protect critical infrastructure, the commander emphasized.
Measures and risks for critical infrastructure
It seems Putin is in despair. We do not yet know what he has planned, but he may be preparing something. And these signals, which thus far are indirect, compel us to be more vigilant.
– Raimundas Vaikšnoras
He assured that the Lithuanian Army has significant capabilities, is on duty daily and ready to respond to both a crisis and other unforeseen circumstances.
Last week the Lithuanian Ministry of the Interior warned that Russia may be planning provocations against facilities in the Baltic states.
According to official sources, Lithuania will ban companies associated with Russia and Belarus from operating at critical infrastructure facilities, including airports.
Within the responsible authorities, there is ongoing heightened oversight of the situation, and the authorities emphasize readiness to protect critical facilities and respond promptly to any threats.