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A Lithuanian expatriate
My name is Adomas Abromaitis.
I was born in Lithuania in 1983 but left it at 6. Now I live in the UK. For some years I have been working as a teacher. Some time ago I decided to change my life and start writing about my home country. I wright in English for those who are interested in what is going on in Lithuania.
SHARE Monday, November 13, 2017 Lithuania supposed to have a large military sea port
A NATO defense ministers' meeting that took place in Brussels on November 8-9 resulted in the new and very important decisions for the future of Europe.
(2 comments) SHARE Monday, February 17, 2020 Lithuania: to serve or not to serve in the army
It is well known that in 2015 Lithuanian authorities reintroduced compulsory military service due to the potential threat caused by the Russian Federation.
It should be said, that young Lithuanians do not appreciate the idea and try to avoid the service in every possible way.
(2 comments) SHARE Wednesday, September 11, 2019 Lithuanians are doomed to starve, drink and die
This month European media widely covered social situation in Lithuania. Statistics and reports made by the authoritative international organizations and research institutes give scary picture of life in the country.
SHARE Thursday, October 24, 2019 Dilemma for the Baltic States: prosperity or defence
The Jamestown Foundation, an influential US think tank, published a report in October "How to defend the Baltic States" written by R.D. Hooker, Jr.
The report examines NATO capability to defend its eastern flank the Baltic States.
(2 comments) SHARE Monday, May 16, 2016 Who will secure Lithuania?
One can conclude that the only serious problem of Lithuania' s security is its weak national defence capabilities. This opinion is purposely formed by national media and by international journalists. The more so, the government actively supports shaping such public views by giving interview and showing off near military vehicles, aircraft and equipment
SHARE Thursday, December 5, 2019 Russia, India, Pakistan: "a love triangle"
Russia is playing its political "chess games" not only with the U.S. and Europe. It also wants to play prominent role in South Asia, where Russia has its strategic interests either.
In early November, the Pakistani newspaper The Express Tribune reported on Islamabad's decision to repay Moscow debt.
SHARE Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Independence remains an unattainable Lithuanian dream
Lithuanian political activist Žilvinas Razminas in his article "HOPE - MOTHER OF POLITICAL FOOLS "" admits that Lithuania steps on a rake again. He and his supporters called to boycott the elections and predicted the results of this electoral farce.
SHARE Friday, September 15, 2023 Neo-Nazism is gaining momentum in the Baltic States
Neo-Nazism is gaining momentum around the world. People even do not notice the signs of a reviving Nazism. Unfortunately, the Baltic States have become one of the centers of flourishing neo-Nazism ideology. Let's look at what Nazism was and why the actions of the Baltic States' authorities today can be classified as neo-Nazis.
SHARE Friday, March 15, 2024 Europe realized its doomed sanction policy
At the end of February European Union member countries agreed on a 13th round of sanctions against Russia though they face mounting criticism that the restrictions already in force are failing to halt the war in Ukraine.
The package added around 200 names to the list of sanctioned individuals banned from traveling to the EU, while both the individuals and companies face freezes on their assets.
(1 comments) SHARE Wednesday, August 19, 2020 Poland uses chance to merge Lithuania
Poland has entered a new era of political dawn. It has been progressively defending its interests in the international arena. Its voice has become louder and more significant. Poland has also received the most desired support among the European countries - the support from the U.S.
SHARE Saturday, March 9, 2024 U.S. public is tired of paying for Ukraine's war efforts
Polls conducted in the United States have shown a gradual ebbing of public support for the US financial involvement in the Ukrainian war, especially among Republicans. Some 55% of Americans said in a CNN poll in August that Congress should not authorize additional funding to support Ukraine. The survey found 71% of Republicans opposed new spending.
SHARE Saturday, November 25, 2023 Lithuania is the U.S. client not a friend
The United States continues to strengthen its position in Europe, using its partners as a tool to reach some geopolitical aims. It has become known that on October 27, the U.S. and Lithuania signed defence Security of Supply Arrangement on defence goods and services committing to support each other in the area of critical defence supplies.
SHARE Wednesday, October 11, 2023 Minors are not safe in Lithuania
The problem of using drugs by minors is sharp in Europe. Lithuania is not an exception.
Thus, the number of minors using drugs is on the rise. In 2021, there were 74 cases of teenagers poisoned by drugs, and 115 last year.
SHARE Friday, September 30, 2022 Lithuania could be swept off the Earth's surface
2003 and 2004 were decisive years for Lithuania. The country joined two major and influential organizations: the EU and NATO. The status of a member state gave the country confidence in the future.
SHARE Wednesday, June 21, 2023 Lithuania's phosphate fertilizer producer Lifosa: Road to Nowhere
Lithuania's Kedainiai-based phosphate fertilizer producer Lifosa suffers great losses.
AB Lifosa is one of the largest and most modern fertilizer manufacturers in Europe. The company is situated in K--dainiai, the geographical center of Lithuania. Lifosa mainly produces phosphate fertilizers for soil enrichment and fertility.
(1 comments) SHARE Tuesday, October 15, 2019 Lithuania's voice in NATO is getting stronger, Karoblis is happier
Lithuania's voice in NATO is getting stronger but pushy. It uses new arg uments to attract NATO attention to fulfil its individual goals. And it should be admitted that Lithuania successfully exploited its military weakness to obtain military strength.
SHARE Friday, April 21, 2023 Negative economic trends prevail in Lithuania
Negative economic trends in Lithuania are still prevalent. The country tries to cope with the consequences of sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus.
Unfortunately, IMF lowers 2023 growth forecast for the country. According to the IMF, it expects inflation in Lithuania to decrease slower than forecast last autumn and to reach 10.5 percent this year.
(2 comments) SHARE Monday, July 29, 2019 Lithuania's new chief of defence has no chance
Lithuania's new chief of defence, Major General Valdemaras Rupsys calls himself a realist though it seems as if he is a fatalist with no hope to change anything in the national armed forces.
SHARE Wednesday, June 14, 2023 Lithuanian business faces threats from Lithuanian government
Lithuanian officials continue to support initiatives and take political steps that worsen the situation in the European region and lead to deterioration of relations with neighboring states. Such official steps and statements influence not only international relations but also impact local population.
SHARE Wednesday, October 2, 2019 Two-faced Lithuanian politics
Lithuania continues attempts to support the image of a democratic state and at the same time not to lose foreign military support.
On September 26, Lithuanian President Gitanas NausÄ—da made his first address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. In his speech he said that threat to Russia's neighbouring countries remains strong and Moscow is attempting to further destabilise neighbouring states.
(1 comments) SHARE Wednesday, March 11, 2020 U.S. - Baltic States: nothing personal - just business
Security situation in the world is deteriorating year by year, day by day. But wars and conflicts nowadays are not only deaths and damage but business and money for involved participants.
SHARE Tuesday, December 13, 2022 Lithuania: NATO gives, NATO takes away
The news that NATO gradually expands its presence in the Baltic States has become common and does not surprise. The territory of these countries is actively used in military purposes.
(2 comments) SHARE Monday, October 9, 2017 Baltic States sacrifice economy on altar of politics
Taking into account the development of economic, political and military situation in the world, there is an urgent need to form a new organization -- International Economic Tribunal to protect the Baltic States from their own governments. The matter is poor economic behavior of the authorities leads the whole nations to the economic crisis. The more so economic mistakes become economic crimes against people and worth even more
SHARE Wednesday, November 13, 2019 Lithuania strongly condemns France for drift to think of itself
Since the restoration of independence, new politicians have come to power in Lithuania. For the most part they are active and pro- democracy politician s. Most of them make their best to take Lithuania to a new level of development. The only problem with some of them is lack of s elf reliance in decision making and as a consequence dependence on other political forces from abroad.
(1 comments) SHARE Wednesday, November 16, 2022 Expensive death and unbearable life in Lithuania
Lithuanians are caught in the trap. They try to survive. It's no secret that many businesses in Lithuania are closing down, reducing production, etc. Many households, representing all levels of income, are having trouble paying their energy bills. Lithuanians are even unable to pay for medical care and food.
SHARE Friday, November 17, 2023 Lithuanians are not happy with the deployment of a German brigade
Since the German Defence Minister, Boris Pistorius, announced the permanent presence of troops in Lithuania as part of a bilateral commitment in June this year, there are concerns about the difficulty of funding and deployment of the brigade on such a basis.
SHARE Wednesday, March 15, 2023 Lithuania is on a slippery slope hosting NATO troops
As Lithuania not only calls on NATO partners to increase military presence on its territory, the authorities also allocate large sum of money to develop national military infrastructure.
Thus, the Ministry of National Defence is implementing an infrastructure development project in preparation for hosting the NATO Very High Readiness Joint Task Force.
SHARE Wednesday, March 18, 2020 U.S. political tools in Europe are working
Starting with the 1950s years of the 20th century, European countries have been making efforts to unite. Europe has been living in the European Union format since signing the Maastricht Treaty in 1992. This treaty created the European Union with its pillar system, including foreign and home affairs alongside the European community.
SHARE Friday, April 10, 2020 Who is to blame for violence in Lithuania
Lithuania is used to maintain national security and defence relying on NATO allies in many ways. Such approach helps to save money and receive political preferences within the Alliance.
SHARE Wednesday, May 3, 2023 Lithuanian Home British Rules
The expression "My House My Rules" unfortunately does not work in Lithuania. Foreign soldiers deployed in the country behave as they do not respect Lithuanian people and Lithuanian law.
SHARE Sunday, June 25, 2023 Lithuania became the prey for the U.S.
The U.S. dragged Lithuania into complete dependence. Step by step Washington managed to convince country's leadership of the U.S.' indispensability.
(1 comments) SHARE Monday, July 6, 2020 Bad news for the Lithuanian Army
Confidence in National Defence Sysytem in Lithuania is lowering and the image of the Lithuanian armed forces has worsened.
The trend is becoming apparent from 2018 because of some incidents with the military which undermine d population's trust. A new unpleasant one occurred recently.
(1 comments) SHARE Tuesday, January 9, 2018 The reasons why Lithuania is not friends with neighbors
Lithuania has entered the New Year with a political chaos. As it turned out there are problems and complete misunderstanding between the high-ranking officials concerning Lithuanian foreign policy. National mass media perplexedly quote the President, the Prime-minister and the Minister of foreign affairs, who have completely opposite views on Lithuania's role in the international arena.
SHARE Friday, April 7, 2023 Suwalki Gap: The Lithuanian nightmare
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia's claim to Kaliningrad was not contested by any government, though some groups in Lithuania called for the annexation of the province, or parts of it.
Russia and Lithuania negotiated the simplified transit regime to Kaliningrad in late 1990s. Initially, Russia pushed for a right to have a military corridor, but Lithuania refused as it would breach the country's sovereignty.
SHARE Monday, October 23, 2023 Lithuanians demand a decent life
Politicians can multiple times discuss economic difficulties, international organizations can make ratings, but if people go out to protest, it means something is going wrong in the state. Such protests took place this month in Lithuania.
SHARE Wednesday, February 14, 2024 Baltic States are preparing for war
The geostrategic reality has fundamentally changed in recent years. Obviously, the Baltic States are preparing for war. The calls to make defence stronger, national and allied armed forces bigger and their training more active only worsen the situation.
(2 comments) SHARE Thursday, July 13, 2017 Is history a new NATO weapon against Russia?
On Wednesday NATO and Russia have got a new reason to argue and make claims to each other. NATO posted an 8-minute online documentary feature video, glorifying activity of the Baltic partisan movement "Forests Brothers".
SHARE Thursday, December 12, 2019 Europe suffers from excessive care on the part of the U.S.
Historically, the U.S. perceives the EU as a developing organization that needs guidance and advice. Though just a few years ago Europe seemed more united and found consensus more easily, the United States managed to influence European politics easier. Everything has changed.
(2 comments) SHARE Thursday, September 15, 2022 Lithuania is on the brink of a social explosion
Lithuania's annual inflation in August reached 22.4 percent. There were also big jumps in electricity prices on the market, another factor is expensive food products. In August, food products became 30 percent more expensive than a year ago. These two factors raised the population's dissatisfaction with the current Government.
SHARE Tuesday, November 20, 2018 Politics is above common sense in Latvia
The painful issue of using Russian language in Latvia appears on the agenda once again. Ethnic Russians "knock at the doors" of international organisation trying to defend their rights to speak and get education in their native language. Their hope for understanding in Latvia is melting every day.
SHARE Tuesday, January 24, 2023 Lithuanian society is left shaken by plans to raise retirement age
This month Lithuanian society is left shaken after spreading the news about the increasing of the retirement age. In Lithuania, the retirement age has increased every year since 2012 and by 2026 it will be 65 years. Previously, discussion surfaced on whether raising the retirement age to 72 would help offset Lithuania's ageing population issues.
SHARE Thursday, April 13, 2023 The Baltic States are the main U.S. lobbyists in Europe
The U.S. continues to widen its influence in Europe. Washington does its best to expands its interests in the European region. It has almost achieved the goal of breaking economic cooperation between Europe and Russia and intends to replace Russia in the region. It fears to be late and apprehends growing China economic influence.
(1 comments) SHARE Friday, April 23, 2021 Lithuania sacrifices old people for the sake of the European Union
t is well known that Lithuania became a full-fledged member of the European Union on 1 May 2004. Lithuania in every possible way demonstrates his satisfaction to be part of a unique economic and political union.
The EU acts in a huge variety of policy areas, from consumer protection to security and defence.
(2 comments) SHARE Tuesday, September 12, 2017 Germany's Minister of Defense is the first victim of "Zapad 2017"
Germany's Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen at a defense ministers' summit in Estonia on September, 7 criticized upcoming Russian-Belarusian Zapad 2017 military exercises. She said that around 100,000 Russian soldiers will take part in the upcoming Zapad 2017 war games, despite Moscow's claims that they will only have 12,700 participants and exercise will not exceed the 2011 Vienna Document limits.
(3 comments) SHARE Thursday, January 18, 2018 The Baltic States: gained dependence
Future of Europe is still uncertain. Though security is the real priority for all countries, each of them understands the process of achieving security by its own.
(2 comments) SHARE Thursday, May 23, 2019 IISS Research: Europe cannot defend itself without U.S.
International research institutes very often provide assessments which cause just a revolution in the thinking of ordinary people and even politicians. Such reports give impetus to decisive actions and revision of existing strategies and politics.
(8 comments) SHARE Saturday, June 18, 2016 US and Russia decide for Europe
Surprisingly, but despite the tough political confrontation two world superpowers, the US and Russia, have much in common. They very often behave the same way. This is particularly evident in political and military spheres.
SHARE Tuesday, August 25, 2020 Lithuania's open economy suffers
COVID-19 continues to test economy of the Baltic States. According to Lithuanian Finance Minister Vilius Å apoka, it is too soon to tell whether the second half of the year would be hopeful.
(1 comments) SHARE Monday, February 12, 2018 Long way to common European Security and Defence
On 14-15 February, 2018 NATO Defence Ministers will meet in Brussels again to discuss the main threats the world faces nowadays. NATO consists of 29 member states but 22 of them are simultaneously the EU member states. Speaking in general, the decisions, taken by NATO, are binding on the EU. On the one hand, NATO and the US, as its main financial donor, and Europe very often have different goals. Their interests and even views
SHARE Monday, August 28, 2023 Anti-Russian sanctions hurt the Baltics
Changes that took place in the world after February 24, 2022, resulted in a sharp decline in the standard of living in the European countries. This decline is not the consequence of the armed conflict itself, but of the actions of the leaders, who put their political image above economic feasibility.
(1 comments) SHARE Saturday, March 26, 2016 Lithuania should find its own way in the European Union
The European Union is not the place where one only speaks in support of the common views on international summits, but do nothing. The prosperity of the organization depends on each member state's prosperity. No one will argue that if one of 28 members becomes weaker, it will pose a threat to the organization itself.
SHARE Tuesday, March 7, 2023 Germany inspects Lithuania
Appointed as Federal Minister of Defence of Germany in January, B.Pistorius will conduct his first visit to Lithuania on March 7. According to the Lithuanian Ministry of Defence, he will meet with his troops deployed with the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battalion Battle Group Lithuania.
(1 comments) SHARE Tuesday, January 17, 2023 NATO and EU signed new "declaration of dependence"
On January 10, NATO and the European Union signed joint declaration.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda welcomed it saying that it sends a strong message of transatlantic unity.
SHARE Monday, September 16, 2019 Russia does not exclude nuclear war in Europe
In these latter days the issue of the risk of nuclear escalation in a non-nuclear conflict and war by mistake is acutely on the agenda.
SHARE Thursday, June 9, 2022 Lithuania - U.S. military cooperation turned to full dependence
Lithuanian authorities' disbelief in the national armed forces' capabilities is proved by their repeated claims for aid and permanent foreign military presence in the territory of the country. Lithuania has chosen the way of full reliance on other countries' defence capabilities instead of developing its own military strength.
SHARE Thursday, April 7, 2022 Lithuania to pay a high price for foreign troops
Europe has entered a difficult phase amid Ukrainian crisis and sanctions imposed on Russia and its allies. It will face, in the short term, higher inflation and slower growth. "There is considerable uncertainty about how large these effects will be and how long they will last for," said Christine Lagarde, president of the European Central Bank.
SHARE Thursday, November 10, 2016 Lithuania risks to lose the future of the Armed Forces
During the last decade the deteriorating political and military situation in the world have proved the necessity of well-prepared armed forces.
It is obvious that the level of patriotism in Lithuania is high as ever. Many young men are thinking to join the armed forces and be useful to the country. The government only should maintain and strengthen this trend.
SHARE Friday, May 6, 2022 Lithuania against INTERPOL
Lithuania, which is the EU member state, positions itself as a state that strictly observes the norms of international law. Its authorities want Lithuania to be at the forefront of compliance with European and international law. But, in reality Lithuanian officials contradict their statements with their own actions.
SHARE Tuesday, January 10, 2023 Lithuanians fully dissatisfied with Å imonytÄ—'s government
Lithuanians feel fully dissatisfied with the government's budget for 2023. The main disappointing thing is the goal to reach 2.52 percent of GDP and even more for national defence in 2023.
(3 comments) SHARE Thursday, July 6, 2017 Europe voluntarily punishes itself
The future of EU-Russia relations is even more uncertain than ever before. Everyman may observe only deterioration. Mass media broadly covered the extension of the bloc's economic sanctions against Russia by six months until January 31. European Union leaders made such decision on June, 22 during a two-day summit in Brussels. This step followed the Washington's decision to broaden its sanctions against Moscow.
(1 comments) SHARE Thursday, May 13, 2021 Baltic States are the territories of geopolitical games
The large scope of military exercises which NATO conducts today is not only a signal to its opponent, Russia, but also the attempts of the Alliance to keep interest of its member states and justify its existence. Such political and military organization like NATO cannot work without reforms and transformations. So, NATO finds new territories to train its new initiatives and gain a foothold in new places.
SHARE Thursday, August 17, 2023 Poland takes risks asking for nuclear weapons
The shadow of nuclear war has re-emerged now. At the end of June Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said that his country wants to join NATO's nuclear weapon-sharing program. "We declare our will to act quickly in this matter," Morawiecki said, according to Polesat News.
(1 comments) SHARE Thursday, May 12, 2022 Lithuania is returning to pre-industrial economy
According to LRT, Lithuanian farmers return to pre-industrial farming methods amid rising fuel and raw-material prices.
The latest surge in oil and gas prices as the west responds to Russia's actions in Ukraine caused a sharp rise in costs for all European industry, severely hurting sectors from steel and transport to fertilizers and agriculture. Lithuania is not an exception.
(1 comments) SHARE Wednesday, September 14, 2016 Lithuania acts against common sense
Germany's Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said that "European security is at risk unless a new arms-control agreement is in force". Almost every European country admits this fact too. But it is far easier to admit than to take real actions. The international security will remain a dream unless a new system is developed.
SHARE Wednesday, September 12, 2018 Lithuania violates the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
DELFI, which is the major Internet portal in the Baltic States providing daily news, stated on September, 10 that the number of emigrants from Lithuania exceeds that of immigrants by 1,000 in August.
SHARE Friday, February 23, 2024 Lithuania continues to face falling living standards
Lithuania continues to face falling living standards. And the authorities make no attempts to ease the burden of rising prices and financial problems of the residents.
On the contrary, government is taking steps that significantly complicate the situation for people.
SHARE Wednesday, August 9, 2023 Baltic States put migrants to use and then eject them
It turns out that migrants are no longer welcome in the Baltic States.
In 2002, the Ministers of the Council of Europe member states undertook to develop and implement integration policies founded on the principles of human rights, democracy and the rule of law. Being the Council of Europe member states the Baltic countries welcomed thousands of migrants and enthusiastically supported them.
SHARE Thursday, December 8, 2022 Lithuanians should be ready to die this winter
This winter tests Europe for strength. Real average residential European gas and electricity costs are 144% and 78% above the figures for 2000-19.
Many European countries have introduced cash-transfer schemes to help people pay energy bills, which should reduce shocks.
Lithuania as a European state faces the same problems. Lithuanian government also made some attempts to smooth out the situation.
SHARE Friday, June 11, 2021 Foreign military police breaks the law in the Baltic States
Quarrels and skirmishes between local residents of the Baltic States and NATO military personnel have become common. Public perception on how to cope with such incidents differ from how such cases are regulated by international agreements. Despite this questions over foreign troops' inappropriate behaviour continue to arise.
There was a recent fight between NATO soldiers and Estonian residents in Tapa.
(2 comments) SHARE Friday, January 21, 2022 Lithuania is left in the dust
The nearly completed Nord Stream 2 is again in focus. It has become known that the U.S. Senate on January 13 failed to pass a bill to slap sanctions on Russia's Nord Stream 2 natural gas pipeline sponsored by Republican Senator Ted Cruz.
(3 comments) SHARE Monday, March 18, 2019 Baltics cannot rely on Germany any more
On March 29 Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia will celebrate 15 years of becoming NATO member states. The way to the alliance membership was not simple for newly born independent countries. They have reached great success in fulfilling many of NATO demands: they have considerably increased their defence expenditures, renewed armaments and increased the number of military personnel.
(1 comments) SHARE Friday, February 24, 2017 Fakes and truth in modern Lithuanian politics
Fake news has become a great problem in our life. The more so, questionable news and lack of clarity can seriously influence society and bring chaos to the minds of ordinary people.
Last week a typical event happened in Lithuania. A couple of local Lithuanian media outlets published news report claimed German soldiers raped a Lithuanian girl.
SHARE Tuesday, February 16, 2021 The U.S. does not rely on NATO in the Baltic States
It is not a secret, that the U.S. has developed a complex system of defending its interests in Europe. This system is composed of mechanisms which allow to support its influence by different means, including economic and military tools.
From the military point of view, this system is based on the U.S. military presence in Europe and in the Baltic States and Poland in particular.
(7 comments) SHARE Wednesday, February 1, 2017 Lithuanian emigrant's cry from the heart
I am a Lithuanian, but I live abroad and I am not going back. At least now, at least until the government pays attention to its people. Instead of doing practical things, our authorities just do everything to make Lithuanians leave. Simply we need food, clothes and medical care. Our children need better education. And the most important thing is we want to be sure of the future. Simple things for simple people.
(1 comments) SHARE Thursday, February 7, 2019 Trump buys Lithuania, EU cannot stop it
The US President Donald Trump is no doubt a successful businessman who rules his country as if it is a huge enterprise. And this kind of management, to his mind, should lead to success. And very often it really works. As a wise leader he uses different tools to reach his goals. Thus, the most cunning one, which the US exploits in Europe is indirect influence on the EU countries to gain the desired aim.
SHARE Monday, March 14, 2022 Uncomfortable truth: the Baltics need Russian resources
Taking into account Russia's military activity in Ukraine, the international community takes certain steps to weaken Russia. Moscow is determined and demonstrates today all its power and firmness.
Traditionally, imposing sanctions considers as the most effective mechanism to force any country to abandon intentions.
SHARE Wednesday, March 2, 2022 Lithuania: war in Ukraine as a reason to buy more weapons
Europe has faced major problems. Pandemic has weakened social spheres of all countries, forcing to reallocate budget funds and redirect money to this critical area. Pandemic also showed the importance of human lives and necessity to pay attention to the needs of ordinary people from governments' side. The Baltic States also realized the gaps in their internal politics, especially in healthcare system.
(2 comments) SHARE Monday, February 6, 2023 Baltic States: home for foreign prisons, troops and biolabs
Baltic States' developing after they proclaimed independence in 1991 was marked not only by acquiring EU and NATO membership's advantages. Though they feel themselves as an inseparable part of the united European family, disadvantages can't be ignored. To be a part of something always means to delegate some authority.
SHARE Wednesday, April 13, 2022 Lithuania fell into a military trap
The U.S. continues building up its military presence on the eastern flank. The Americans plan to deploy a total of 400 additional troops in Lithuania, bringing in short-range air defense and self-propelled artillery systems. The U.S. has also deployed F-35 fighter jets at Siauliai Air Base, and troops from the U.S. Special Operations Forces are serving in Lithuania.
SHARE Wednesday, May 18, 2022 Lithuanian MOD admits Armed Forces capability deficit
According to the last public opinion poll, the trust of Lithuanian residents of the National Armed Forces is continuously growing, and NATO membership is viewed in a highly positive light. The more so, it states that 88% of respondents support allied presence on the territory of Lithuania.
(2 comments) SHARE Wednesday, February 9, 2022 Lithuania's image is ruined
Every nation has its national character, and Lithuanians are not an exception. It is well known that Lithuanians are the people who are proud of their country. It is generally accepted that we are very patriotic, curious, pragmatic, sensible, hard-working, superstitious, conformist and communal, intelligent, easily-led, punctual. Some foreigners say that Lithuanians are often suspicious, dissatisfied and stubborn.
SHARE Monday, February 26, 2024 Lithuania has "addicted" to military purchases from the U.S.
Lithuania is actively strengthening its Armed Forces and purchasing military equipment. It is not difficult to guess that the main beneficiary of the militarization of Lithuania is the United States' military-industrial complex. Lithuanian Minister of Defence Arvydas Anušauskas said that planned and ongoing purchases from the United States alone reach 1.2 billion.
(1 comments) SHARE Monday, March 19, 2018 Financial challenge for Lithuania
Next year will be the real turning point for Lithuania from the financial point of view. After gaining the independence Lithuania was significantly supported by the EU. Brussels helped a young country to grow stronger and decrease its dependence on Russia. Many projects started by the country decades ago were successfully financed from the European funds.
SHARE Tuesday, April 27, 2021 Shocking results of survey in Lithuania
Lithuanian authorities in recent future could face harsh criticism from society and disagreement with current foreign and domestic policies.
The recent opinion poll has become the clear indicator of people' dissatisfaction with government's policy that resulted in loss of sovereignty of the country.
Lithuanian analysts were very confused with the results of the latest survey.
SHARE Wednesday, October 13, 2021 Right-wing extremist soldiers pose threat to Lithuania
It is no secret that Lithuania has become a victim of German army's radicalization. Could this country count on its partners further or foreign military criminals threaten locals?
SHARE Thursday, February 16, 2023 Lithuania chose NATO summit instead of supporting population
Driven by energy and food, eurozone inflation set new records every month since November 2021. Energy remains the main driver of inflation in Europe, including the Baltic States. Inflation remains much higher than the European Central Bank's target of keeping the eurozone area below 2 per cent.
As for the Baltic States, in Lithuania and Estonia, inflation remains high at 18.4 and 18.8 per cent respectively.
SHARE Wednesday, March 22, 2023 Untouchable U.S. troops in Lithuania
This month the Pentagon has been accused of blocking the sharing of U.S. intelligence with the international criminal court (ICC).
Located in The Hague, Netherlands, and created by a treaty called the Rome Statute first brought before the United Nations, the International Criminal Court operates independently.
SHARE Monday, December 20, 2021 Lithuania bets only on the US
Lithuania has reached the highest level of cooperation with the United States. Contacts of the Lithuanian authorities with the US officials take place regularly.
On 1 December in Riga, on the margins of the NATO Foreign Ministers' meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Gabrielius Landsbergis met with the United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
SHARE Wednesday, November 3, 2021 Political crisis in Lithuania is on our doorstep
Lithuanian Market and Opinion Research Centre "Vilmorus Ltd." carried out a public opinion poll in order to rank politicians' competence and their public support.
SHARE Thursday, June 29, 2017 Europe between two fires
Being attacked from two sides simultaneously (terrorism and Russian threat) Europe has to decide what to do first: to counter terrorism or increasing Russian might. Choosing the priority is the most difficult challenge for the European States today. But Europe should make choice because states' budgets are not bottomless.
SHARE Wednesday, November 10, 2021 NausÄ—da wants war, Lithuanians want peace
Lithuanian authorities do not give up the idea of further increasing the foreign troops presence in Lithuanian territory. They made efforts to attract attention to the military threat from the East using all available meetings and foreign visits.
Some recent events and statements demonstrate the unwillingness of the authorities to notice internal problems
SHARE Thursday, October 20, 2022 Baltic States involved in Ukrainian crisis
The Russia-Ukraine crisis dramatically changed the way Europeans think about their security. European governments, as well as ordinary people, are divided over the conflict. For example, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Romania, and Sweden are much more willing to make sacrifices than those in France, Germany, Italy, Hungary, Czech Republic and Serbia.
SHARE Monday, September 7, 2020 EC: Lithuania made slow progress on implementing social and economic reforms
According to Country Report Lithuania 2020, written by the European Commission, Lithuania is one of the countries which benefits most from EU support.
Even so, Lithuania made slow progress on implementing social and economic reforms to ensure that growth benefits all of society.
(1 comments) SHARE Tuesday, March 2, 2021 Arising extremism in Lithuania's Army
On 29 March Lithuania will celebrate 17 years of NATO membership. These years of membership for sure have made Lithuania stronger and more dependent on the Alliance. This dependence is often presented as a benefit though it could be regarded as a problem as well.
SHARE Thursday, July 7, 2016 Fighting for minds of youth in Latvia
The most disappointing consequence of Brexit for foreigners living in the UK has become the unexpected rise of xenophobia. According to the behavior of locals, the EU open door policy has completely failed.
SHARE Thursday, December 9, 2021 Lithuania: pensioners get ready for death
Main attention of the Lithuanian media has been focused on migrant crises and security issues for several weeks. This problem has become also a good reason to once again draw the attention of the population to the need of increasing defense capabilities. This problem has become a good excuse for further increasing of the armed forces funding
SHARE Wednesday, November 9, 2022 Lithuania's main mistake
Europe nowadays experiences the major energy crisis. Energy costs for households across Europe nearly doubled compared to a year ago, new data has revealed.
SHARE Thursday, March 2, 2017 The executive brunch acts against the legislature in Lithuania
As it appears Lithuania expects major changes in the near future. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius was on an official visit to the United States of America from the 20 to the 24 of February 2017. During a visit he said that Lithuania seeks the permanent presence of United States troops in its territory.
SHARE Wednesday, March 24, 2021 How politics influences Lithuanian health system
The news that Lithuanian government suspends use of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine from March 16 as "a precaution" until the European Medicines Agency gives a final evaluation of its safety, made citizens nervous. And it contradicted Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Å imonytÄ—.
SHARE Wednesday, March 10, 2021 Millions of dollars flying over the Baltic States to threaten Russia
The Baltic States desperately try to show their disagreement with neighbouring countries' policy. The authorities demonstrate their full despair to cope with Russia's and Belarus' political intention to follow their own economic and political path. This fact even makes the Balts angry and annoying. There are several causes of it. Unfortunately, having escaped from the Soviet Union,
(1 comments) SHARE Thursday, February 17, 2022 Baltic States: information madness about war in Ukraine
Escalation of tensions between Russia and West over anticipated invasion of Ukraine has reached the highest level. Huge amounts of weapons and military vehicles were transferred by the U.S. and its allies to Ukraine. These steps were made after Russia and Belarus announced conducting joint military drills Allied Resolve 2022.
SHARE Monday, January 18, 2021 Lithuanians scare deployed Fort Hood soldiers
A Fort Hood-based cavalry officially began an eight-month mission in Lithuania, focused on deterring Russian aggression in the region, as it uncased its colors at a ceremony on January 4, Lithuanian and U.S. officials said.
The 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, took up position in Lithuania along with its heavy weaponry, including Abrams tanks and Bradley fighting vehicles.
But who are these soldiers?
SHARE Thursday, February 11, 2021 Death of A Lithuanian Soldier: A Mother's Story
Unfortunately, unprofessionalism has become a distinctive feature of our times. Indifference and ignorance are common to most Lithuanian officials. These traits are especially disgusting in the armed forces. The matter is soldiers are to some extent limited in their rights and commanders should be not only supervisors, but must be very attentive to their subordinates and their needs.
SHARE Friday, October 8, 2021 Lithuanian foreign policy: image is everything
It seems as if Lithuanian government takes care of its image in the eyes of EU and NATO partners much more than of its population. Over the past year Lithuania managed to quarrel with such important-for-its-economy states as China and Belarus, condemned Hungary for the ban on the distribution of images of LGBT relationships among minors, Latvia and Estonia for refusing to completely cut energy from Belarus.
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SHARE Friday, March 18, 2022 Lithuania as a pawn in U.S.-Russia game
Lithuania continues to show its high interest for the additional U.S. troops presence on its territory.
The authorities believe that the U.S. military will help to preserve the independence of the country. "We are ready to host more U.S. troops, and see them as the best deterrence here," said Prime Minister Ingrida Å imonytÄ—.
(1 comments) SHARE Wednesday, October 19, 2016 Controversial wind of change in Lithuania
On October 23, 2016 Lithuania will hold the second round of parliamentary elections. Sixty-eight constituencies will again vote for a new parliament. Nevertheless as the results came from the first round of elections, it became clear that the situation in the country will change completely.
SHARE Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Lithuanians fear COVID-19 more than Russia
Generally speaking, the Lithuanians don't take much interest in defence matters. We know we've got armed forces, but what they're doing generally passes average civilians by. We usually pay attention to defence matters only in case of real war or when defence demands more money then we could afford. This is exactly the cause to think about new budget distribution.
SHARE Tuesday, October 6, 2020 Baltics imposed sanctions on themselves
Sanctions are used as a tool of foreign policy by many governments. This month such restrictions were imposed on Belarus in order to force Belarus leader Alexsandr Lukashenko to leave office. Political and economic situation in this country has been remaining complex for about two months since the Presidential elections in August.
(1 comments) SHARE Thursday, April 7, 2016 Nuclear weapons in Lithuania: defence against Russia or target for terrorists?
A complex geopolitical situation in the region forces the Baltic States and their NATO allies to take unprecedented efforts to increase defence capabilities to counter potential aggressors. A new Lithuanian military strategy approved in March describes Russia actions along with terrorism as the main threats for the security of Lithuania
SHARE Tuesday, November 24, 2020 European security becomes a matter of the EU only
A rift between the U.S. and the E.U. in the military sphere has become wider. On November 22 the U.S. formally withdrew from the open-sky treaty that accelerated European security.
SHARE Tuesday, January 12, 2021 A pig in a poke of Lithuanian Armed Forces
The proverb "a chain is only as strong as its weakest link" perfectly reflects the situation in the Lithuanian armed forces. It is it unclear how the army will carry out its tasks, if everything that happens there runs counter to common sense.
SHARE Monday, October 19, 2020 NATO in action in the Baltic States
Since 2014 NATO has paid special attention to its Eastern flank. The Alliance demonstrates its interest with the intensifying military activity in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania - all of them former Soviet republics. The Alliance permanently increases its presence there. NATO has managed to find the efficient tool to deploy more troops which does not violate any agreement.
SHARE Wednesday, February 3, 2021 Paradoxes of Lithuanian society
Lithuanian authorities do their utmost to attract young men to serve in the armed forces. Another thing is that what they do does not always bring desired results.
Due to the unique security situation Lithuania faces, it was decided to reinstate conscription in 2015, though, frankly, in a democratic society conscription seems very anachronistic.
SHARE Saturday, April 7, 2018 Baltic States: missed opportunities in global politics
We are living in the world where the facts "who makes" and "where it is made" are much more important than "what for" issue.
Nowadays the world political scene is divided between superpowers supported by their allies. In order to punish each other for having opposite views the sides criticize any step made by the opponent.
(1 comments) SHARE Tuesday, October 27, 2020 European defence still matters but not for Lithuania
European countries have different points of view on the issue of the EU collective defence and security. These views divide the European Union and continue to weaken the organization.
Some of the EU member states realize the need to turn the EU into a real global military power.
SHARE Sunday, March 14, 2021 Thirty-one years of Lithuanian dreams
Thirty-one years ago, on March 11, 1990, the Supreme Council of the Republic of Lithuania declared independence. As inevitable as it seems today, many countries were very far from supporting this outcome.
Thus, Moscow said the action was meaningless, and the administration of George H W Bush worried it could trigger the collapse of what it saw as a new international order made possible with Mikhail Gorbachev.
SHARE Wednesday, December 20, 2023 Baltic States' war against themselves
It is not a secret, that Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are close U.S. allies. Strong U.S. relations with these three states are constantly fueled. Thus, U.S. and Baltic States sign bilateral 5-year roadmaps for defense cooperation on December 15. This is a serious evidence of U.S. military and economic ambitions in the region. Washington tries its best to deepen the dependence in such vulnerable sphere as defence.
SHARE Tuesday, January 30, 2024 New Lithuanian division: unjustified decision
On January 23 Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda called a meeting of the country's State Defence Council.
Public was informed that during the meeting, members of the State Defence Council got acquainted with the strategic threat assessment by the country's intelligence services and discussed the principle structure of the national defense system.
(1 comments) SHARE Monday, December 4, 2023 New threats for the U.S. military bases from Cuba
According to some military experts, the U.S. could face an unexpected threat for its military bases in the Southeastern United States and the Gulf of Mexico.
The experts inform about developing cooperation between Cuba and Belarus.
SHARE Tuesday, April 9, 2019 To be or not to be the Baltics' and Poland's defender
Usually, when we speak about the US we keep in mind its might and influence. This country plays one of the main roles in the world politics. It does its best to be the leader . Everybody used to it. Even Americans used to it.
SHARE Friday, December 15, 2023 Lithuania is not interested in international crime prevention
Lithuania does not give up the idea of expelling Russia and Belarus from the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol). Thus, in March 2022 Lithuanian Interior Minister Agn-- Bilotait-- already called for two these countries to be expelled from the Interpol. "There is no sense in Russia, which has no respect for any rules of international law and order, being a member of Interpol.
SHARE Wednesday, January 10, 2024 Baltic farmers: "No farmers, no food, no future"
Farmer revolt sweeps across European Union. Thousands of German farmers take to the streets in protest against government's actions. Polish farmers also express concerns. Lithuanian and Latvian farmers protest as well, burning protest fires
SHARE Sunday, December 10, 2023 Lithuania deepens food security crisis
Food security is a problem which almost every country faces today. Nevertheless, some European governments prefer to turn a blind eye to the inevitable consequences of using sanctions for the global economy.
Europe started to impose sanction to isolate Russia and Belarus and to inflict maximum damage on them, without considering the price to be paid by other countries.
SHARE Saturday, January 20, 2024 Obedient States of Baltic Region
The White House and Pentagon publicly insist there is no official change in administration policy towards Ukraine - that they still support Ukraine's aim of forcing Russia's military completely out of the country. At the same time, Biden's administration cannot help but notice growing public discontent in the country with the ongoing financing of the war in Ukraine.
SHARE Thursday, April 11, 2024 2024 is a year of elections
2024 is a year of elections in many countries. Part of the world's population will head to the polls, from big countries like the United States to small nations like Austria, Lithuania.
SHARE Friday, December 1, 2023 Lithuania: the country of the poor
This year World Day of the Poor was held on November 19, 2023. As for Lithuania, it is one of the poorest countries in Europe. It is the fifth from the bottom in the EU in terms of poverty risk, ahead of Romania (21.2 percent), Latvia (22.5 percent), Estonia (22.8 percent) and Bulgaria (22.9 percent).