Lithuanian presidential advisor targeted by Russian pranksters Vovan and Lexus

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda’s chief advisor Deividas Matulionis was targeted by Russian pranksters Vovan and Lexus, with the deceptive conversation later shared by Russian propaganda outlets, LRT reports.

A video surfaced on the pranksters’ channels featuring an eight-minute call with Matulionis and Madis Rolas, Estonian President Alar Karis’ security and defence advisor. The call focused on recent drone incidents in the Baltic states, allegedly caused by off-course Ukrainian drones.

Impersonating former Ukrainian Defence Minister and National Security and Defence Council head Rustem Umerov, the pranksters expressed regret over the incidents and suggested Ukraine wanted to prevent their recurrence. Matulionis inquired about Ukraine’s proposals and reiterated Lithuania’s support for Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory.

“We strongly support all actions against legitimate targets in Russia. However, there is some concern in Lithuania about recent Ukrainian drone incursions,” Matulionis said. He noted that Lithuanian leaders avoid criticising Ukraine publicly, warning that Russia could exploit such incidents for provocations.

Matulionis also asked whether Ukrainian experts could assist Lithuania in addressing new threats, particularly in air defence and counter-drone measures. He acknowledged Lithuania’s struggles with the emerging challenge, citing ongoing procurement of low-altitude radars, though the process remains incomplete.

“We are trying to purchase several low-altitude radars, but the acquisition isn’t finished yet. We’ve already received a few and are considering their deployment. As far as I know, we’re slightly behind Latvia, which has already installed such systems,” he said.

In the call with Rolas, the pranksters asked about Estonia’s stance on Ukrainian-caused disruptions and provoked a statement later seized upon by Russian propaganda. Rolas responded diplomatically, expressing gratitude for efforts to prevent drones from entering Estonian airspace and offering cooperation on security.

Russian propagandist Vladimir Solovyov later distorted Rolas’ remarks, claiming Estonia intended to help Ukraine attack St. Petersburg.

Matulionis confirmed he was the target of the prank but doubted it was the work of independent pranksters. “Yes, it’s true, but I doubt this was an attempt by pranksters. In my personal opinion, this was an attempt by Russian services. Everything was done very professionally, apparently using AI to mimic Umerov’s voice—I know him, so I was almost convinced I was speaking to Umerov,” he said.

Vovan and Lexus are known for targeting politicians worldwide. Last year, they impersonated Russian opposition figure Leonid Volkov in a call with Lithuanian conservative MP Žygimantas Pavilionis. Umerov had previously warned of attempts to misuse his name in late May.