Lithuania’s military intelligence has warned that hostile states are actively attempting to recruit individuals via social media and online messaging platforms.
"Online messaging platforms are being used to spread offers to carry out tasks serving the interests of hostile states in Lithuania. We have recorded cases where individuals, most often using foreign names and surnames, offer payment in return for spreading messages that incite ethnic hatred," the Second Investigation Department (AOTD) under the Defense Ministry said in a statement.
In one recent case identified on Telegram, a person was asked to distribute leaflets bearing the foreign-language slogan “Vilnius is ours”, with payment promised upon completion. When the targeted individual requested that printing costs be covered, the recruiters reportedly refused, insisting that at least some of the leaflets first be posted as proof the task had been carried out.
Messages reviewed by the department instructed the individual to print the leaflets in colour, cut them out and place them in busy locations, preferably near the city centre, before photographing each one for verification. Payment of €50 was offered for posting 100 leaflets.
The agency said recruiters employ a range of methods, including manipulation and blackmail, often exploiting personal vulnerabilities such as financial difficulties, addiction or ideological beliefs.
Initial recruitment efforts typically involve low-level tasks, such as vandalising monuments, writing slogans on walls or distributing political posters, leaflets or stickers. More advanced assignments may follow, including requests to gather intelligence by observing, photographing and reporting on Lithuanian Armed Forces units, NATO deployments, military transport movements, critical sites and civilian infrastructure.
At later stages, recruits may be instructed to carry out acts of sabotage either in Lithuania or abroad.
AOTD stated that those behind such offers are linked to the intelligence and security services of hostile states and urged the public to remain vigilant and to reject proposals indicating potentially illegal activity.
The agency also noted that, under the Criminal Code, individuals may be exempt from criminal liability if they promptly inform the authorities about ongoing espionage activities or their early stages.
“We urge anyone contacted by hostile foreign intelligence or security services to approach Lithuanian intelligence institutions. This can both exempt them from criminal liability and help prevent planned or ongoing crimes,” the statement said.
Earlier in February, the State Security Department similarly warned that Belarus’ KGB had circulated a video aimed at recruiting potential agents by encouraging people to air grievances against Lithuania’s authorities.
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