Lithuanian FM: NATO has means to “level Russian air-defence” in Kaliningrad

Lithuania’s Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys has stated that NATO would be capable of fully eliminating Russian military facilities in Kaliningrad if necessary, noting NATO has the means to “level Russian air-defence and missile bases.”

In an interview with the Swiss newspaper NZZ, he said NATO must demonstrate resolve to deter threats originating from the region, Caliber.Az reports.

“We must show the Russians that we are capable of breaking through the little fortress that they have built in Kaliningrad. NATO has the means, if necessary, to level Russian air-defence and missile bases there,” he stressed.

Budrys made it clear that NATO is the strongest organisation ever created.

“In terms of strategic and operational planning, as well as military capability, it has no equal. Trust between allies is the foundation of deterrence. If we ourselves doubt Article 5, why should our adversary believe in it? I have no doubts regarding the obligation to provide assistance,” the FM added.

He also said that Lithuania lacks sufficient air-defence capabilities.

“Russian and Ukrainian drones repeatedly enter our airspace. Russian military aircraft also sometimes fly over Lithuania with their transponders switched off. When that happens, public concern grows that we are not investing enough in Lithuania’s defence,” he emphasised.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov