Stronger critical infrastructure protection does not indicate increased threat, says defence minister

Strengthened protection of critical infrastructure does not signal a higher threat level and is being extended as a precaution, Lithuania’s defence minister Robertas Kaunas told reporters on Tuesday, as reported by LRT.

“We are increasing the protection of critical infrastructure preventively, and this was done on June 11 at the request of the Ministry of the Interior, and we are now extending that decision,” Kaunas said.

He noted that several key critical infrastructure sites, such as the liquefied natural gas terminal, are involved, with additional personnel—up to 30 soldiers—and necessary equipment deployed to ensure stronger protection.

According to Kaunas, the threat level has not increased since June 11, when the request and decision were made. “The threat level has not worsened, it has not changed, but we are simply continuing the operation preventively,” he stated.

The minister did not rule out that the enhanced protection could be extended beyond August 19.