Lithuanian authorities ramp up war preparations

Vilnius Mayor Valdas Bencunskas has unveiled a comprehensive defence plan for the Lithuanian capital in case of war, including measures for evacuation.

"No escape plan is being prepared, a city defence plan is being prepared, but it is important to have evacuation plans," the mayor clarified, Caliber.Az reports via Lithuanian media.

Bencunskas stated that if an evacuation is ordered, it must be completed within 1.5 days, using six designated routes. The mayor emphasized the need to account for road capacity during peak times and the presence of bridges and rivers, considering potential bombings that might render some bridges unusable. Five evacuation scenarios are being prepared in anticipation of hostilities.

To strengthen Vilnius's defences, the city will increase the number of bomb shelters to accommodate 100% of its residents, compared to the current capacity of 50%. Additionally, more warning sirens will be installed to cover the entire city. The plan also includes building a new training centre for drone operators, preparing for a German military brigade, and purchasing anti-tank barriers, steel hedgehogs, and concrete blocks to obstruct roads. Bencunskas noted that 1,900 people have already volunteered to assist in the city's defence preparations.

Vladimir Putin's assertive policies, the situation in Ukraine, and ongoing tensions with the Kremlin have heightened military security concerns in Western countries, particularly those bordering Russia, such as the Baltic states.

In June, the Lithuanian Seimas approved conscription for young men after completing their schooling. They will serve in the military for nine months, with some cases potentially shortened to six months. The conscription targets school leavers aged 18 to 22, who will be tested for military suitability at 17. After receiving a summons, they cannot pursue higher education until their military service is completed. Lithuania reinstated compulsory military service in 2015 following Russia's annexation of Crimea and the ensuing geopolitical tensions.

This spring, Estonia, another Baltic nation, hosted a NATO exercise that included French troops testing a new reconnaissance team for possible deployment to Ukraine. Last September, NATO naval units conducted exercises off the coasts of Estonia and Latvia to prepare for potential Russian aggression and ensure the safety of Baltic Sea routes in the event of a Suvalka Corridor blockade.