Lithuanian troops have begun military drills at the border with Belarus. The exercises started ahead of the Zapad-2025 manoeuvres planned by Russia and Belarus. Lithuania’s armed forces are using the training to test response times and coordination near the border area.

The Lithuanian army deployed personnel and equipment in the border region. The drills are scheduled just before Zapad-2025, a joint operation involving Russian and Belarusian armed forces. Authorities in Lithuania state the aim is to enhance defence readiness. The location of the drills is close to a major crossing with Belarus.

The Lithuanian government has increased military activities in areas near Belarus in recent years due to regional tensions. Defence officials noted the drills would focus on rapid deployment and cooperation between different branches of the armed forces. No additional details about the number of troops or planned duration have been released.

Lithuania is a member of NATO and has frequently expressed security concerns over developments in neighbouring countries. The Zapad-2025 exercises are part of a regular series of joint drills by Russia and Belarus. Lithuanian leaders describe their own activities as strictly defensive.

(Source: Kyiv Independent)