Lithuania reports rise in probes into aiding foreign states against country
Lithuania's Prosecutor General's Office annual report shows a sharp increase in pre-trial investigations for aiding foreign states against Lithuania – seven launched in 2024, compared to one in 2021.
The number of pre-trial investigations into aiding foreign states in actions against Lithuania has increased, according to the Prosecutor General's Office annual report. Prosecutor General Nida Grunskienė told reporters that in 2021, one such investigation was launched, while last year (2024), seven were initiated. She could not specify the reasons for the rise.
In total, 17 pre-trial investigations were conducted in 2024 regarding aiding foreign states, espionage, and terrorism-related crimes. Seven of these concerned aiding a foreign state to act against Lithuania.
By comparison, one such investigation was launched in 2022, none in 2023, and two cases were opened in 2024. Last year, an investigation was launched into the threat to national security posed by smuggling balloons. This year, the Klaipėda Prosecutor's Office opened a probe into disinformation regarding the so-called "Klaipėda People's Republic" and claims that the city and its port belong to Russia.
The Criminal Code provides for a prison sentence of 2 to 7 years for aiding a foreign state in acting against Lithuania, increasing to 10 years under aggravating circumstances.
