Lithuania to Expand Military Training Areas

Lithuania is moving forward with plans to enhance its military training infrastructure, with the Defence Ministry identifying the districts of Tauragė and Šilalė as potential sites for new training centres. Deputy Defence Minister Renius Pleškys highlighted the necessity of these developments during a session with the Parliamentary Committee on Rural Affairs, as reported by Lithuanian media outlet LRT. The initiative, which has been under parliamentary discussion since mid-July, faces challenges, including limited available space and concerns from local residents regarding potential restrictions on their movement. To address these issues, Pleškys assured the committee that efforts would be made to minimize disruption to local communities. He mentioned that proposed training areas would be adjusted, potentially moving them at least 100 meters in some instances to avoid interference with local activities. The Defence Minister, Laurynas Kasčiūnas, emphasized the military's urgent need for additional training space, assuring that the new areas would be legally designated for military manoeuvres while excluding heavy military activities and firing ranges to further reduce community impact. Despite the government's efforts to accommodate local concerns, Pleškys acknowledged that not all community interests could be satisfied, indicating potential opposition from residents. These developments are seen as vital for bolstering NATO's eastern flank and ensuring long-term security for the Baltic states amid ongoing fears of Russian aggression. In response to these security needs, Lithuania has increased its defence spending to 3% of GDP this year, with the government raising taxes to support military initiatives, including the establishment of new training grounds and bases.