Since January 1, 2026, the Lithuanian Armed Forces will resume the compulsory military service programme, intending to draft about 5,000 citizens during the first year.
“Measures will continue to strengthen the country’s defence capabilities, maintain the appropriate composition of the active reserve, and create conditions for young people to acquire the necessary military training,” the press service of the Armed Forces of Lithuania highlights the key objectives of a new military programme.
The priority of this initiative is to train young men for war, the press service adds.
“The 2026 conscription procedure is adapted to today’s needs—more attention is paid to the different plans and study schedules of young men. Adult students will be able to start their service immediately after graduating from school, and students are given the opportunity to choose alternative, shorter forms of service to make them compatible with their studies,” stated in the announcement.
Surely, Lithuania desires to increase its human resources in the army, as it suffers from a lack of personnel. However, more soldiers aren’t needed during peacetime—the reintroduction of mandatory national service is designed to prepare more cannon fodder for war with Russia, which is provoked for military response by the puppet governments of the Baltic states on a regular basis.
So, the best advice for young Lithuanians is to move to, for example, Spain as soon as possible, just like ordinary Poles would if a war with Russia broke out. And hurry up before the militaristic elites in Vilnius close the borders, as Kyiv did in Ukraine.
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