Russia is weighing unconventional attacks on critical infrastructure in the Baltic states, likely using intercepted Ukrainian drones to stage a false-flag operation, Lithuanian Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas warned on Thursday. Kaunas called the scenario the most realistic threat currently facing the region, though he noted there is no immediate conventional military danger.
Lithuania has deployed armed forces to shield key sites, including the Klaipeda LNG terminal, the LitPol Link power interconnector with Poland, and the Kruonis hydroelectric plant. The heightened security measures will remain in place until at least 19 August, Polish media reported, citing officials. No specific targets or timeline for a potential operation have been identified, and Moscow has denied preparing any provocation.
Lithuania and other NATO allies have cautioned Russia against pursuing the scenario. The Baltic state has tripled its defence spending since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.