Baltic States Brace for Russian Provocation

Fears of a possible Russian provocation have prompted countries bordering Russia to strengthen security around dams, power plants, gas facilities and other critical infrastructure.

Lithuanian officials have warned that Russia could stage attacks using Ukrainian-made drones to disguise responsibility. Lithuania, Latvia and Poland have also raised concerns that Moscow could target critical infrastructure or stage other provocations aimed at testing NATO’s response.

The Kremlin has rejected the allegations, accusing NATO countries of using fears of Russia to justify a military buildup along its borders.

Lithuania has deployed troops to reinforce security at several strategic energy sites. These include the Klaipėda liquefied natural gas terminal, the LitPol Link electricity interconnection with Poland and the Kruonis Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Plant. The deployment, involving up to 30 troops as well as a vessel or motorboat and crew, is scheduled to continue until 19 August.

Latvia has also strengthened protection of critical infrastructure as regional governments respond to intelligence assessments warning of possible Russian sabotage.

Lithuanian and Latvian leaders have said intelligence indicates that Russia could be considering limited attacks on energy or transport infrastructure in the Baltic states or Poland. Such operations could be intended to disrupt essential systems while testing NATO’s willingness and ability to respond.

(Reuters, bak)