Lithuanian intelligence officials say they are monitoring external actors attempting to exploit local sensitivities in Kapčiamiestis, a small town in the southern Lazdijai District, amid plans to establish a new military training area.
“External actors are trying to take advantage of the heightened sensitivity of the situation and, through various social media platforms, spread messages that would seemingly further intensify confrontation,” Remigijus Bridikis, director of the State Security Department (VSD), told journalists at the parliament on Wednesday.
Bridikis said foreign actors are attempting to influence the views of local residents, though no large-scale organised activity has been detected.
“So far, this is an opportunistic attempt to take advantage of the current situation and the discussions we are living through at the moment. One topic, another topic – this is a constant process. The most important thing is how we manage it,” he said.
The intelligence chief said three groups are being closely monitored: external actors, local residents with specific expectations, and individuals not directly linked to local issues but seeking to inflame tensions. “We are monitoring those three groups, and they have different interests. But probably the most important thing is how, internally, we will be able to meet the expectations of those for whom this really hurts,” Bridikis said.
The parliament’s Committee on National Security and Defence is scheduled to review intelligence assessments regarding possible external influence related to the Kapčiamiestis training area project on Wednesday.
In mid-December 2025, the State Defence Council approved plans to establish a brigade-sized training area in Kapčiamiestis and expand the Tauragė training area.
Some residents have protested the project, prompting meetings with the president, government ministers, and military officials. The Defence Ministry and the military say they are consulting with local residents and providing psychological support where needed.
Officials said the location was chosen for its strategic proximity to the so-called Suwalki Corridor. The new training area will allow the national division under formation, along with allied forces, to conduct exercises. It is expected to accommodate 3,500 to 4,000 soldiers at a time. Larger exercises will be held about five times a year for up to 10 days each, with smaller-scale training taking place regularly.
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