Lithuania is moving to dedicate more than 17 million euros toward counter-mobility initiatives along borders with Russia and Belarus. The decision comes after a government decree recorded by the Ministry of Defence and was confirmed by the government in Vilnius. The focus is on strengthening defensive posture in key frontier zones to deter potential transregional threats and to safeguard EU and NATO members from destabilizing actions in the region. [attribution: Lithuanian Government and Ministry of Defence]
In the capital, officials calculated that implementing the draft resolution’s counter-mobility measures would require about 17.56 million euros over a three-year period. Of this total, around 3 million euros is slated to be drawn from the State Defence Fund in the current year as part of a staged investment plan. The rest will follow in subsequent budget years, aligning with longer-term strategic objectives for border safety and deterrence. [attribution: Lithuanian Ministry of Defence]
Lithuanian Defence Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas stated that roughly 600 million euros is anticipated for counter-mobility vehicles and related systems. The figure reflects a broader emphasis on mobility, rapid response capability, and enhanced surveillance to monitor and respond to any incursions or hostile activity along frontline zones. [attribution: Lithuanian Defence Ministry]
The effort complements broader regional cooperation among Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. In June, the four Baltic and Central European allies discussed building a defensive perimeter along the European Union border with Russia and Belarus to shield the alliance from military threats and other disruptive actions from Moscow. The plan underscores a shared commitment to joint deterrence, interoperability, and rapid reinforcement across eastern flank borders. [attribution: Official statements from participating governments]
Earlier reports noted alleged Russian airspace infringements, which have historically heightened tensions and prompted responses from Baltic states and allied forces. The current funding and organizational steps form part of a comprehensive approach to border security, air and sea monitoring, and rapid-deployment capabilities designed to deter aggression and assure regional stability. [attribution: government and defence authorities]