Russia conducting information operation against Lithuania over drone incidents, security chief warns

The head of Lithuania’s State Security Department (VSD) has accused Russia of waging an information campaign against Lithuania and other Baltic states amid recent drone incidents, while also testing long-term preparedness for potential military scenarios.

Speaking in an interview with Žinių Radijas on Tuesday, VSD Director Remigijus Bridikis stated that Russia is employing increasingly aggressive rhetoric to pressure Baltic nations into reducing support for Ukraine. “We must understand that, first and foremost, an information operation is being carried out against us, pushing us to abandon or limit aid to Ukraine,” he said.

His comments follow reports that Ukrainian drones, used in recent strikes on northwest Russia, have entered Baltic airspace. While Russia claims these overflights are deliberately permitted by Baltic states, Lithuania and its neighbours deny the accusation, asserting that drones are diverted into their territory by Russian electronic warfare systems.

Bridikis warned that Russia, stung by Ukrainian attacks on its critical infrastructure, could escalate with further provocations. “There may well be broader plans—we shouldn’t dismiss the possibility that, under the cover of this information pressure and threats, certain provocations could be staged,” he said. He stressed that Lithuania’s priority is maintaining control over its airspace and managing any situation, regardless of the drones’ origin or direction.

Addressing speculation that Lithuania’s presidential statement last month—urging warring parties not to use its airspace for drone transits—was influenced by Russian fears over potential strikes on Kaliningrad, Bridikis said leaders communicate “what they deem necessary” based on available intelligence. “We provided decision-makers with certain information, which was reflected in public statements. I’ll stand by the position that we conveyed what we could through those in charge of decisions,” he added.

The VSD maintains that while Russia currently lacks the capacity for a conventional NATO challenge, desperation could drive it toward “actions it deems suitable at the moment.” Bridikis called for robust public communication, airspace protection, and a functional civil defence system to counter such threats. “Let’s focus not on what others might plan, but on how we’re prepared to respond to any situation,” he said.