Russian border guards begin seasonal grass burning near Lithuanian border

Russian authorities have started controlled grass burning near the Lithuanian border in the Kaliningrad region, causing smoke and visible flames, Lithuania’s State Border Guard Service (VSAT) reported on Monday.

The annual practice, which typically begins in mid-March, has intensified this year, with fires visible both day and night. Border guards in the Pagėgiai district, including the Kudirkos Naumiestis checkpoint, have observed flames and thick smoke drifting into Lithuanian territory, according to VSAT.

Darius Mekšraitis, head of the Kudirkos Naumiestis border post, confirmed that fires are burning at various times, with nighttime blazes creating a glow in the sky and daytime burns producing open flames and dense smoke. The smell of burning has also reached Lithuanian communities near the border.

VSAT noted that while some fires occur close to the frontier, natural barriers such as the Nemunas, Šešupė, and Širvinta rivers—which mark parts of the border—reduce the risk of flames spreading into Lithuania. However, border guards remain vigilant and are prepared to coordinate with firefighters if necessary.

The controlled burns span the entire Pagėgiai border district, from Vištytis in Vilkaviškis district to the Curonian Lagoon in Šilutė district.