Lithuanian Colonel: Russia's Ambition to Restore Soviet Union

What Happened

Lithuanian Colonel Linas Idzelis spoke to Ukrinform, revealing insights into Russia's ambitions to restore the Soviet Union by regaining control over Ukraine. He characterized this effort as critical to Moscow's objectives and provided a detailed account of the threats it poses.

Key Details

Idzelis stated that for Russia, capturing Ukraine is vital as it does not allow for any potential revival of the old Soviet Union without it. He noted, "They want to firstly destroy Ukraine and then to keep going, to restore the Soviet Union." This indicates a calculated strategy by Russia, which has previously sought to exert its influence in Belarus and other former Soviet states.

Additionally, he reflected on the European response, cautioning that preparation for potential military conflict with Russia must not be superficial. Idzelis insisted that military budget reductions in Europe could jeopardize national security, emphasizing the role of political will in defense strategies.

The Colonel reassured that Lithuania currently does not face an immediate military threat akin to the so-called "Donbas scenario," due to the lack of concentrated Russian sympathizers in the region. However, he warned about the subversive impact of Russian media and cultural content.

Despite Lithuania's ban on Russian television channels, he expressed concern over the pervasive availability of Russian programming online, which can influence public sentiment.

Why It Matters

The insights from Colonel Idzelis underscore the ongoing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe. As Russia's intentions become clearer, the necessity for European nations to reinforce their military preparedness becomes imperative. The ability of the European Union to respond to potential threats hinges not only on military readiness but also on the resilience against informational warfare from Russian sources.

Background

The commentary from Colonel Idzelis follows a broader context of escalating military aggression from Russia, particularly in Ukraine. Notably, in June 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin is unwilling to end the war in Ukraine due to his aspirations to revive Soviet dominance.

The historical significance of the Soviet Union and its legacy continues to shape the security landscape in Eastern Europe, highlighting the critical need for vigilance and prepared defense strategies against potential Russian advancements.