Lithuania Fortifies Border with Russia’s Kaliningrad Region, Using Mines and Concrete Blocks

Lithuania has completed fortifying part of its border with Russia’s Kaliningrad region, deploying minefields and concrete barriers shaped like “dragon’s teeth.” The fortification has been implemented at the Panemunė Bridge, which connects Lithuania with the Kaliningrad region.

The Lithuanian Ministry of Defense announced the completion of the border fortification, which is part of a national program to enhance the country’s defense capabilities. The newly established barriers include both concrete blocks and other mobility control measures. Lithuania plans to create 27 such defensive sections along its border with Russia and Belarus.

Lithuanian Defense Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas stated that these measures aim to bolster defense in the event of potential sabotage or military aggression. He also mentioned that up to 3 million euros have been allocated for these measures this year, with funding from the Lithuanian Defense Fund starting in 2025.

The fortifications include mines, concrete blocks in the form of “dragon’s teeth,” and other obstacles. Lithuania also plans to install additional barriers on key state roads and approaches to bridges. Similar fortification efforts are underway on the border with Belarus.

The border fortification is part of a broader strategy by Lithuania to enhance its defensive posture amid increasing threats from neighboring countries. Lithuania is coordinating its efforts with neighboring countries, such as Latvia, Estonia, and Poland, to effectively defend the Suwałki Corridor. Overall, Lithuania plans to spend around 600 million euros on mobility measures over the next decade.