Lithuanian parliament approves Kapčiamestis military training ground despite opposition criticism

The Lithuanian Seimas (parliament) on Tuesday approved a law establishing a military training ground in Kapčiamestis, despite objections from opposition factions, LRT reports.

The bill, which had raised questions about unity within the ruling coalition until the last moment, passed with 102 votes in favour, 10 against, and 5 abstentions. Critics from the opposition “Aušra” (Dawn) and Farmers and Greens Union factions argued the project was being rushed, but defence officials insisted the facility is essential for Lithuania’s growing armed forces.

Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas told lawmakers the training ground is necessary to accommodate an expanding military, including professional soldiers—whose numbers will rise from 13,000 to 20,000—and volunteers. By 2030, Lithuania plans to form a national division, requiring additional space for NATO allies to conduct exercises.

“All this weaponry, the growing structure, needs infrastructure so soldiers have where to train, perform manoeuvres, and fire,” Kaunas said. He noted Lithuania previously had no need for multi-functional ranges, but its sole existing facility now operates at full capacity.

Addressing concerns over the site’s location in Dzūkija, near Belarus’s Goža military range, Kaunas argued the proximity allows Lithuania to mirror potential troop buildups. “We saw clearly how the war in Ukraine began with Russia massing soldiers near the border under the pretext of training,” he said, adding that the Suwałki Corridor’s strategic importance further justifies the project.

The government approved the law last week amid local protests. Some residents have accepted property expropriation if compensated fairly. The 3,000-hectare site—roughly the size of Kaunas—will require the state to purchase 13 homesteads. Owners of seasonal homes and businesses like kayak rentals or hunting clubs may continue operating, while affected landowners will receive financial compensation exceeding market value, including a €52,000 bonus per property and €5,000 per plot.

Critics, including “Aušra” MP Aidas Gedvilas, questioned whether the project addresses urgent priorities, citing a recent drone incident in Varėna district. Kaunas countered that while air defence improvements are underway, ground forces remain critical. “If we had strengthened air defence 10 years ago, we might not face such incidents today,” he said, but stressed that “the main battles happen on land.”

Farmers and Greens Union representative Dainius Gaižauskas criticised the rushed legislative process, but Kaunas denied the bill was expedited. The ministry aims for the facility to be fully operational by 2030.