Lithuanian parliament’s approval of Kapčiamestis military range shows state-level commitment, says Kubilius

The Lithuanian parliament’s decision to establish a military training ground in Kapčiamestis demonstrates a unified state-level approach to national defence, according to Andrius Kubilius, the European Commission member responsible for defence and space policy.

Speaking to LRT Radio on Friday, Kubilius said the overwhelming cross-party support—including from opposition factions—signals a “genuine state perspective” on defence strategy. “I understand this as the Kapčiamestis range being an integral part of Lithuania’s defence strategy,” he stated.

On Thursday, the Seimas (parliament) gave final approval to the project, with 105 lawmakers voting in favour, 12 against, and 4 abstaining. Opposition to the plan came from eight members of the Aušra (Dawn) party, two from the Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union (LVŽS), and two independents.

The Defence Ministry’s proposal divides the 14,600-hectare site into two zones: one for manoeuvres and another for live-fire combat training. The Seimas also unanimously approved an expansion of the existing Tauragė military range into neighbouring Jurbarkas district.

Last December, Lithuania’s State Defence Council decided to establish the brigade-scale Kapčiamestis range in Lazdijai municipality and double the size of the Tauragė facility.