Lithuanian defense official discusses countering Russian propaganda and ensuring election integrity amid security threats.
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Lithuanian Deputy Minister of Defence Karolis Aleksa discussed measures taken by Lithuania to ensure fair elections and combat Russian propaganda during an interview with HotNews in Vilnius, as part of the cross-border Pulse project. He stated that Russia attempts to influence societies, particularly through elections, viewing it as an efficient tool for policy change. Given Lithuania’s proximity to Russia and Belarus, the country has taken various precautions, including developing a city evacuation plan following the invasion of Ukraine. Aleksa emphasized cybersecurity efforts, supported by new legislation in the Vilnius Parliament, while noting that Lithuanian society is resilient but vigilance is necessary. He stressed that global security depends on the situation in Ukraine and warned against complacency regarding NATO’s Article 5 defense. Furthermore, Lithuania employs several bodies to monitor disinformation; the Lithuanian Armed Forces’ Strategic Communication Department has monitored Russian propaganda for over a decade, the State Security Department receives citizen reports of pro-Russian messages online, and the Lithuanian Radio and Television Commission (LRTC) fines broadcasters for spreading misinformation on television. Aleksa warned Western societies against being complacent about Russia’s ambitions, stating that failure to demonstrate self-defense could lead to greater conflict escalation.
