Kaunas says Lithuania could advance universal conscription

Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas says Lithuania could bring forward the planned start of universal military conscription, depending on the armed forces’ capacity, he told BNS in an interview reported by LRT.

A decision has been made to introduce the system in 2032, but Kaunas said it could be reviewed in a year or two in light of changing circumstances. He said he would press the military on its progress in preparing for universal conscription, so officials could assess whether an earlier start was feasible and needed.

Defence officials agreed last week to introduce universal conscription for men from 2032. Twice a year, all adult young men who have finished school are expected to be called up, with at least 7,500 conscripts planned annually.

Preparations before 2032 are expected to include investment in accommodation for conscripts and training instructors, at a cost of about 120 million euros. Government leaders had wanted a more ambitious timetable but accepted the military’s arguments about readiness, according to the report.