Lithuanian Social Democratic leader suggests possible future conscription

The leader of Lithuania’s Social Democratic Party (LSDP), Mindaugas Sinkevičius, has said the country may introduce universal conscription in the future, though not during the current parliamentary term.

In an interview with ELTA, Sinkevičius stated that while he believes Lithuania will eventually need conscription, the timing depends on readiness. “I don’t want to make promises, but I think we will reach a point where it is necessary. The question is when and whether we will be prepared. This is not just a political decision—it requires infrastructure, instructors, and other preparations,” he said.

He argued that universal conscription could strengthen national security, with every citizen contributing to the country’s defense. “Conscription is a component of national security. Why couldn’t it be introduced? I think it could. We must all try to contribute to greater security. If we are better prepared, we will live more peacefully and appear more secure. An aggressor will see that we are better prepared and may never bare its claws,” Sinkevičius added.

Earlier, Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas said Lithuania is moving toward conscription but emphasized the need for thorough preparation. President Gitanas Nausėda has expressed a similar stance, while the chief of defense, Raimundas Vaikšnoras, has stated there is currently no need for universal conscription.

This year, Lithuania implemented a new mandatory military service system aimed at increasing the number of conscripts. Under the new rules, young men aged 18–22 are called up immediately after finishing school, compared to the previous age range of 18–23.