NATO's Lithuania plans 5,000-strong draft in 2026 amid rising Russian threat

Lithuania has unveiled a sweeping plan to draft about 5,000 citizens into compulsory basic military service in 2026, linking the move to a tougher security posture amid the Ukraine war and repeated Russian airspace violations over Europe. The year‑long conscription window, running from January 2 to December 31, is designed to rapidly expand Lithuania’s army, reserves and junior officer corps as NATO states brace for further Russian pressure on Europe’s eastern flank. Watch for more