Lithuania’s Race to Prep for War on Russia’s Doorstep
As tensions escalate along NATO’s Eastern Flank, Lithuania finds itself at a critical juncture, caught between the geopolitical ambitions of Russia and the looming threat of conflict. Amidst low-grade attacks that have been ramping up, the Baltic nation has long been vocal about the dangers posed by its eastern neighbor, a warning that has grown increasingly urgent in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In the latest episode from The Wall Street Journal, journalist Matthew Luxmoore takes a deep dive into Lithuania’s strategic efforts to bolster its defenses and mobilize its citizens for potential war, highlighting the profound vulnerabilities the country faces. Sandwiched between Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave and Belarus, Lithuania’s geographic positioning underscores the urgency of its military preparations.
The video opens by showcasing the Lithuanian Rifleman’s Brigade, a critical component of the nation’s defense strategy. This volunteer force reflects a commitment to an integrated defense model, combining professional military personnel with civilian volunteers. This blend not only enhances military readiness but reinforces national unity and resilience.
As hybrid attacks become more frequent, Luxmoore sheds light on the multifaceted nature of threats Lithuania encounters. These low-intensity tactics, which can include cyber assaults, misinformation campaigns, and disruptive ground actions, challenge traditional notions of warfare and demand a robust and adaptive response from the Lithuanian government and its allies.
Civilian defense emerges as a key focus of the country’s preparations. Tailored training programs are being implemented to equip ordinary citizens with the skills necessary to respond to various crises. This initiative underscores a paradigm shift in national security: everyone has a role to play in ensuring the safety and sovereignty of their nation.
The urgency of these preparations is palpable as Lithuania ramps up its military readiness. With fears of a full-scale conflict looming larger by the day, the nation’s leadership is committed to ensuring that its armed forces are equipped and ready to protect its borders and deter aggression.
A significant point of concern remains the Lithuania-Belarus border, an area of strategic importance given the close ties between Belarus and Russia. As tensions simmer, this border not only acts as a physical barrier but also symbolizes the frontline in Lithuania’s defense strategy.
As the landscape of warfare continues to evolve, Lithuania stands as a microcosm of the broader challenges facing European security. The resilience and determination showcased in Luxmoore’s report serve as a poignant reminder of the stakes involved in this high-pressure geopolitical arena. Lithuania’s proactive measures may well set a precedent for other NATO countries grappling with similar threats, reinforcing the alliance’s collective defense commitments at a time when it matters most.
Watch the video by The Wall Street Journal
Video “Lithuania’s Race to Prep for War on Russia’s Doorstep | WSJ” was uploaded on 11/26/2025 to Youtube Channel The Wall Street Journal