Growing up in a country once dominated by Soviet rule, Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė didn’t have the freedom to celebrate Christmas. Her family’s history is deeply intertwined with the legacy of oppression, as her mother was born in a Siberian prison camp. The reason behind this harsh fate? Her brother handed out leaflets proclaiming, “Lithuania is free.”
Today, nearly three decades after the Soviet Union’s grip was loosened, many Lithuanians remain cautious, especially when discussing relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a recent interview at the Lithuanian Embassy in Washington, Šakalienė expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of diplomacy with Russia, echoing the sentiment of organized crime figures that negotiations often necessitate the presence of coercive power.
When asked about trusting Putin, Šakalienė did not hold back. Reflecting on her family’s experiences and the broader historical context, she emphasized that trust is a rarity among Lithuanians when it comes to Russia’s leader.
The conversation turned to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which has persisted for over three years. She noted the importance of strong leadership in challenging Putin, asserting that a firm and uncompromising approach, similar to that taken by former President Donald Trump, is vital for containing Russian aggression.
Lithuania, a small nation located in Eastern Europe with a population of just 2.8 million, recognizes that it cannot afford to overlook the threats posed by its powerful neighbor. The country shares a significant border with Russia and Belarus, the latter serving as a staging ground for Russian military operations.
Šakalienė pointed out that the current geopolitical climate is designed to instill fear and insecurity among its neighbors. In response, Lithuania has taken steps to increase its defense budget, aiming to reach 6% of its GDP by next year, well beyond what NATO allies like the U.S. currently contribute.
In line with this tough stance, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently called on NATO allies to step up their defense spending, reinforcing a commitment to a more equitable alliance. Šakalienė praised his remarks, suggesting they served as a wake-up call for many nations.
The defense minister also pointed to the historical failure of Russia to honor agreements, highlighting a continuous pattern of disregard for diplomatic commitments. She made it clear that a naive view of global politics can lead to dangerous vulnerabilities.
As Lithuania reassesses its defense strategy, it is also contemplating withdrawing from international treaties that may hinder its ability to protect itself, such as those banning cluster munitions and land mines. Šakalienė emphasized that Lithuania must prepare to defend itself with all necessary means, making it clear that Russian aggression will not go unanswered.
Highlighting China’s role in the ongoing conflict, she noted that Russia’s military capabilities are bolstered by support from Beijing, which benefits from a prolonged conflict in Ukraine. A weakened Russia ultimately serves China’s strategic interests more than a strong, militarized neighbor.
In her closing remarks, Šakalienė warned against underestimating adversaries. She urged global leaders to recognize the true nature of their opponents. Her unyielding commitment to defending Lithuania and her strong stance against Russian aggression serve as a reminder of the fragile peace that exists in Eastern Europe today.
