Lithuanian volunteers enlist in paramilitary force at record rates as Russia threat looms

Lithuania’s Riflemen’s Union, a civilian paramilitary group, is seeing record growth amid fears of Russian aggression. Membership surged after the invasion of Ukraine, with over 16,000 members and hundreds joining monthly. Volunteers train for crisis response and defence, many driven by family histories of Soviet oppression. The government backs the mobilisation, urging national resilience in key sectors beyond military upgrades. Strategic concerns include the Klaipeda port near Kaliningrad, increasing the region’s vulnerability. The Union reflects Lithuania’s broader defence strategy focused on civilian preparedness. For recruits, joining is both personal and patriotic—a bid to prevent history from repeating.

Om Podcasten

#AlJazeeraEnglish, we focus on people and events that affect people's lives. We bring topics to light that often go under-reported, listening to all sides of the story and giving a 'voice to the voiceless.'Our impartial, fact-based reporting wins worldwide praise and respect. It is our unique brand of #journalism that the world has come to rely on. We are reshaping global media and constantly working to strengthen our reputation as one of the world's most respected #news and #CurrentAffairs channels.