A terrorism trial began Wednesday at the Vilnius Regional Court, where an 18-year-old Ukrainian citizen is accused of carrying out a terrorist act by setting off an explosion and fire at an Ikea store in the Lithuanian capital.
The defendant, who is also charged with illegal possession of explosives, was brought to a closed hearing under escort by the Public Security Service. At the time of the alleged offence, he was a minor.
Lithuanian prosecutors have classified the March 2024 incident as a terrorist attack. The case was handed over to the court in mid-March and involves charges under three sections of the Criminal Code: committing a terrorist act, acting with terrorist intent and unlawful possession of explosives.
According to case files, on May 8, 2024, an explosive device with a timer was planted inside the Ikea store in Vilnius. The resulting blast caused a fire and significant property damage.
Authorities allege that the attack was carried out by a terrorist group coordinated through encrypted messages on social media platforms. The group is suspected of having ties to Russian intelligence services. Prosecutors believe the act was organised and ordered by individuals linked to Russia’s special services.
Two Ukrainian nationals under the age of 20 are suspected of having executed the attack. One of them, who was 17 at the time, is currently in custody in Lithuania. The second suspect has been detained in Poland.
According to officials, the investigation into those who organised the act is ongoing, and an international search has been launched for several individuals.
The accused was arrested on May 13, 2024, near Panevėžys, Lithuania. Authorities say they intercepted him as he travelled by bus toward Riga, Latvia, allegedly planning a second attack using materials previously stored in Lithuania.
The court also received a civil claim for damages amounting to 485,000 euros filed by the Ikea store in Lithuania.
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