Lithuania takes unprecedented actions as Russian invasion threats mount

The mayor of a European capital has revealed that evacuation plans are being finalized as fears of a potential Russian invasion grow.

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, lies less than 100 kilometers from the Russian border. As a former Soviet republic, the country remains deeply concerned that Vladimir Putin may target the Baltic state next.

This week, Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas unveiled an evacuation plan to local residents, outlining 150 designated routes that would allow the city’s 540,000 inhabitants to flee in the event of a Russian attack.

According to Lithuanian public broadcaster LRT, residents would be alerted via emergency text messages and sirens. In addition, a dedicated mobile app is being developed to provide information and guidance during emergencies.

The mayor noted that the plan is intended as a contingency if the Lithuanian military is unable to defend the capital, and that a full evacuation could take several days.

Speaking on LRT, Benkunskas said: “People need to make this decision now, not when it’s time to leave their homes. You have to ask yourself: will I need assistance, will I go on my own, or even on foot—if that’s your thing?”

Retired military officer Major Darius Antanaitis added: “What’s important is that an assessment has been done—now the municipality knows what’s needed for evacuation. That, I think, is critical.”

(QG - Source: The Daily Express — Picture : © Unsplash)