In Lithuania, a national plan for the mass evacuation of citizens is being developed, which is planned to be presented in October 2024. About this informs LRT.
The Minister of Internal Affairs, Agne Bilotaite, said during a press conference that the basic plan will be ready at the beginning of October. She emphasized that although each territorial unit already has its own evacuation plan, it is necessary to create a comprehensive strategy at the national level, ready to be implemented in case of need.
The minister also emphasized that the issue of citizens’ security has become especially urgent due to the growth of cyber attacks and new hybrid threats.
“Today, civil protection is more relevant than ever. The war against Ukraine continues, countries in our region are exposed to hybrid and disinformation attacks, and sabotage is our new reality. It is important to note that we are in a frontline position, so today civil protection has become a priority in our order daytime”, – explained the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the country.
She added that strengthening civil protection at the national level is not enough, so Lithuania plans to closely cooperate with other Baltic countries. They will also apply for funding for population protection projects from the European Union.
“Yes, it is very expensive, but we have to discuss the possibilities of joining our efforts and getting the corresponding support from the EU…We call for a risk assessment at the level of the European Union to better understand the threats and ensure civil protection measures.” she said.
In July of this year, the Seimas of Lithuania approved a program for the development of civil defense, which provides for the creation of new shelters, warning systems and a mobile application with funding in the amount of 285 million euros.
Lithuania will also continue to support Ukraine in its resistance to Russian aggression. Bilotaite emphasized that in the conditions of modern hybrid and military threats, the country should move from civil protection to civil defense.
Latvia’s Interior Minister Rihards Kozlovskis added that his country was working to create safe shelters, while Estonia’s Vice-Chancellor of the Interior, Tuuli Rjaim, stressed the importance of being prepared for worst-case scenarios.
