Lithuania is planning on reinstating conscription for men between the ages of 19-26, over fears about Russia’s military intervention in Ukraine.
Defensenews.com reports:
The latest decision was made by the State Defense Council, a body which comprises Lithuania’s president, prime minister, parliament speaker, defense minister, and the head of the country’s armed forces, reports local news site Delfi.lt.
“We must reinforce the country’s defense capacities. Under new geopolitical circumstances, the Army must be properly prepared for the country’s … defense even in times of peace. Today’s geopolitical situation requires that we strengthen and speed up the manning of our army,” said Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite.
Under the plan, between 3,000 and 3,500 men will be drafted each year, the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense said in a statement.
Lithuania scrapped conscription in 2008. Neighboring Estonia has maintained conscription, while the government of Latvia has considered increasing its military numbers.
The Lithuanian parliament has yet to approve the decision by the State Defense Council. Should it secure such approval, the measure will be effective for at least five years.
Sean Adl-Tabatabai