Visit of EU Commissioner M. Brunner to the Border: Focus on Border Security and Illegal Migration
Minister of the Interior Vladislav Kondratovič, together with the European Commissioner responsible for internal affairs and migration Magnus Brunner, who is currently visiting Lithuania, visited the Padvarionys Border Guard Station and the Medininkai Border Control Post. During the visit, they discussed the migration situation along the eastern border of the European Union (EU) and common security challenges faced at the EU's external borders.
According to the Minister of the Interior, the situation at the border with Belarus remains tense, with an increase in illegal migrant flows observed this year. In the first months of 2025 alone, Lithuanian border guards prevented more than 700 individuals from attempting to illegally cross the border. Since 2021, more than 23,700 such cases have been recorded.
“Lithuania is constantly repelling hybrid attacks. Our border guards are on the front lines, defending not only Lithuania's but also the European Union’s external border. We are grateful to the European Commission for its support and look forward to continued close partnership. Only by acting together can we ensure a secure EU external border and the safety of our citizens,” emphasized Minister Kondratovič.
Currently, Lithuania’s entire external border is monitored using advanced technologies. 90% of border guards are equipped with NATO-standard weaponry, and the upgrade of the patrol track is ongoing.
“We must continue strengthening the security of Lithuania’s border. This requires modern tools that allow us to respond to emerging threats in real time. As technology advances, our decisions must also be forward-looking — which is why we are discussing the so-called drone wall and the use of artificial intelligence,” said the Minister of the Interior.
Minister Kondratovič also highlighted the EU’s action plan on the security of underwater cables following incidents in the Baltic Sea — a step Lithuania considers timely and politically significant. In response, Lithuania has initiated a national response algorithm in which the State Border Guard Service (VSAT) plays a key role.
The Minister called on the European Commission to take into account the financial needs of frontline EU member states — such as Lithuania — in negotiations over the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), particularly regarding the strengthening of external border security and critical infrastructure. For Lithuania, it is especially important that sufficient funds are allocated for the smooth and secure implementation of the Special Kaliningrad Transit Scheme. Given the current geopolitical situation, the transit of Russian citizens through Lithuanian territory presents serious security challenges.
Last updated: 16-06-2025
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