dw.com
Russia-Belarus Military Exercises Raise Lithuania's Security Concerns
Amidst Russia and Belarus's joint military exercises, "Zapad 2023," Lithuania is bolstering its border security due to heightened concerns of potential border violations, particularly given Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and a history of hybrid warfare tactics.
- How are Lithuania and its neighbors responding to the increased security threat?
- Lithuania is increasing border patrols, providing additional training for border guards, and planning to increase its military budget to over 5 percent of GDP by 2026. Neighboring Baltic states share similar concerns and are coordinating their responses, including joint military exercises involving up to 40,000 troops.
- What is the primary security concern for Lithuania due to the "Zapad 2023" military exercises?
- Lithuania's main concern is the potential for border violations from Russia and Belarus, especially given the use of hybrid warfare tactics in the past, such as instrumentalizing migrants. The proximity of the exercises to the border and Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine amplify this risk.
- What are the long-term implications of the current situation for Lithuania and the Baltic region?
- The long-term implications include the potential for Russia to establish a long-term military presence in Belarus, which could be used as a launching point for future aggression against the Baltics. The historical context of Soviet occupation and the current geopolitical environment contribute to ongoing anxieties and the need for continued vigilance.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of the situation, acknowledging both Lithuania's concerns and the historical context of military exercises. While focusing on Lithuania's heightened security concerns due to the 'Zapad' exercises and Russia's actions in Ukraine, it also includes perspectives from experts in Latvia who highlight the shared historical experience of the Baltic states and the current presence of NATO troops, offering a counterpoint to the immediate anxieties. The headline, if any, would influence the framing, but it's not provided.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective, avoiding loaded terms. While describing Russia's actions as 'aggression' and referring to potential border violations, the article presents these as factual descriptions rather than biased interpretations. The use of quotes from officials adds to the objectivity.
Bias by Omission
The article could benefit from including additional perspectives, such as those from Belarusian officials or independent analysts, to provide a more complete picture of the situation. While the article mentions the historical context, a deeper exploration of the reasons behind the 'Zapad' exercises from a Russian perspective could improve the overall understanding. The omission of specific numbers regarding casualties or military equipment involved in previous exercises or incidents might also limit the reader's ability to fully assess the situation. However, given the length of the article, some level of omission is to be expected.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the military exercises between Russia and Belarus, increasing tensions and threatening peace and security in the region. The heightened military activity and potential for border violations directly impact the goal of maintaining peace, justice, and strong institutions. The historical context of Soviet occupation further emphasizes the ongoing security concerns and the fragility of peace in the region.