Lithuania’s President Gitanas Nausėda delivered his second annual address to the Seimas on Tuesday, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s political discourse. In a speech that underscored growing concerns over national security, Nausėda reflected on recent developments that have heightened fears of external threats. His remarks came shortly after a nationwide air raid alert was triggered, prompting widespread testing of emergency protocols across government buildings, schools, and public facilities. This exercise revealed both the preparedness of Lithuania’s civil defense systems and the gaps that still exist in readiness for potential large-scale crises.
The president emphasized that the alert served as a stark reminder of the evolving geopolitical landscape, one where traditional notions of peace are being challenged. He described the current era as one of increasing instability, where direct military threats are no longer confined to distant conflicts but are now perceived as tangible risks to Lithuanian citizens. Nausėda warned that the country is facing a form of “hybrid war” that has persisted for over a decade, involving not only conventional military tactics but also cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and irregular border crossings.
Among the most alarming incidents cited by the president was the recent data breach at Lithuania’s Centre of Registers, an institution responsible for maintaining critical personal information. Nausėda criticized the delayed response to the breach, arguing that the public was informed too late about the scale of the attack. He called for a comprehensive review of the incident to prevent similar occurrences in the future, highlighting the vulnerability of digital infrastructure in the face of sophisticated cyber threats.
The president also addressed the issue of irregular migration, noting that Lithuania continues to experience unauthorized border crossings and the use of smuggling balloons to transport contraband. These actions, he argued, reflect a broader strategy aimed at destabilizing the country and undermining its sovereignty. Additionally, Nausėda mentioned acts of terrorism and sabotage, which he claimed are part of a coordinated effort to weaken Lithuania’s independence and resilience.
In terms of defense policy, Nausėda praised Lithuania’s commitment to strengthening its military capabilities, citing the country’s defense budget of 5.38% of GDP—a significant increase compared to previous years. He expressed hope that this level of investment would continue beyond 2030, emphasizing the importance of long-term strategic planning. The president also highlighted the expansion of military training areas, particularly the ongoing debate surrounding the Kapčiamiestis site, which has sparked controversy among certain lawmakers.
Nausėda acknowledged the challenges faced by the legislative body, noting that some members of parliament—particularly those from the Nemunas Dawn faction and parts of the Farmers and Greens coalition—had opposed the establishment of military training grounds. He questioned whether all elected officials fully grasped the gravity of the security situation and were prepared to uphold the nation’s interests during times of crisis.
Despite the prevailing sense of urgency, Nausėda remained optimistic about Lithuania’s ability to defend itself. He reaffirmed his belief in NATO, describing it as a formidable alliance rather than a symbolic entity. He specifically referenced Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, which outlines collective defense obligations, and asserted confidence in the solidarity of NATO allies. However, he also stressed that Lithuania must remain self-reliant and capable of standing firm in the face of adversity.
Looking ahead, Nausėda outlined several key priorities, including the deployment of the full German armored brigade in Lithuania by 2027. This initiative, he explained, is essential for enhancing the country’s defensive posture and ensuring alignment with NATO’s collective security goals. As the nation grapples with mounting external pressures, the president’s address serves as both a call to arms and a reminder of the delicate balance between vigilance and diplomacy in safeguarding Lithuania’s future.
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