Lithuanian parliament advances controversial Kapčiamiesčio military training ground law

The Lithuanian parliament on Tuesday approved the contentious draft law on establishing the Kapčiamiesčio military training ground, with the opposition “Nemuno Aušra” faction leading resistance, LRT reports.

The vote saw 109 MPs support the bill, 11 oppose, and two abstain. Most opposition came from the “Nemuno Aušra” faction, along with three members of the Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union. The decision follows weeks of public debate and protests over the project’s environmental and social impact.

Liberal Movement leader Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen called the vote a “litmus test” for lawmakers, accusing some of prioritising political games over national security. “This issue reveals who votes in the state’s interest and who shamelessly uses defence as a tool for manipulation,” she said.

Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas welcomed the result, noting that support had doubled among coalition partners since the last vote. “The fact that parliament has the will to adopt this law is encouraging,” he told reporters, urging an end to “politicking” ahead of upcoming municipal elections.

Opposition leader Remigijus Žemaitaitis reiterated his stance against the project, arguing it represents unnecessary investment in “concrete and trenches” rather than strategic defence needs.

Parliament also extended the decision-making period for property compensation claims from five to ten years, a move that passed without opposition. The bill now faces further procedural votes before final adoption.