Lithuania's Foreign Minister, Kęstutis Budrys, has said that recent drone incidents in the Baltic states form part of a broader Russian strategy aimed at exerting military pressure and destabilising democratic societies through hybrid tactics and disinformation.
In a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry on Thursday, Budrys said Russia was pursuing a coordinated effort to undermine European security.
"Today's security challenges show that Russia's actions – from the war in Ukraine to hybrid attacks and disinformation – are a consistent strategy to weaken Europe," he said.
"Moscow's plan is to cause chaos, and our response must be unity and strength. We must strengthen the security of the Eastern Flank, increase support for Ukraine and not allow the aggressor to impose its terms and narratives on us."
Budrys made the remarks during meetings with Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, chair of the European Parliament's Subcommittee on Security and Defence, and David McAllister, chairman of the European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs.
The talks focused on regional security, Russia's war against Ukraine, hybrid threats, the responses of the European Union and NATO, and Ukraine's prospects for membership of both organisations.
The Lithuanian foreign minister called for a stronger European and transatlantic response to hybrid threats, including expanded air defence systems, enhanced protection of critical infrastructure and improved counter-drone capabilities.
According to Budrys, Lithuania is already investing in these areas, strengthening coordination between institutions and improving preparedness for aerial threats.
He said continued solidarity with countries on NATO's eastern flank, efforts to combat disinformation and sustained pressure on Russia would be essential to ensuring long-term security.
"The fundamental goal remains unchanged – to strengthen Ukraine, seek a just and lasting peace and build European security based on deterrence, real capabilities and a strong transatlantic bond," the ministry statement said.
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