Lithuanian security service warns of possible Victory Day provocations

The Lithuanian State Security Department (VSD) has issued a warning about potential provocations and public order disruptions ahead of Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9, according to a statement reported by LRT.

The agency cautioned that pro-Kremlin individuals may gather to display banned Soviet-era symbols, justify Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, and disrupt events with Soviet military marches or other provocative acts. Demonstrations could include protests over the removal of Soviet monuments from public spaces, a policy Lithuania has legally implemented to eliminate totalitarian remnants.

“Loud Soviet military music in cemeteries is inappropriate for honoring the memory of the deceased in a sacred space,” the VSD noted, adding that such displays could escalate social tensions and ideological conflicts.

The department urged the public to report any suspicious activities linked to Victory Day events that may threaten national security. In Lithuania, May 9 is observed by some Russian-speaking communities, who traditionally visit Antakalnis Cemetery in Vilnius to pay respects to Soviet soldiers buried there.

Russia and Russian communities mark May 9 as Victory Day over Nazi Germany, while most of Europe commemorates the end of World War II on May 8.