Lithuanian Defence Minister expresses support for Georgian people, calls out “Russian puppets”

Lithuania’s Defence Minister, Dovilė Šakalienė, has voiced strong support for the Georgian people amidst rising tensions and protests. In a post on X, Šakalienė highlighted Lithuania’s experience in overcoming oligarchic influences tied to Russia and expressed solidarity with Georgia’s citizens in their struggle for freedom.

“As a country that managed to shake off oligarchs with ties to Russia, Lithuania stands with the people of #Sakartvelo in their fight for freedom from oppression,” Šakalienė wrote, using Georgia’s native name.

The Lithuanian official further underscored optimism for Georgia’s European aspirations: “Stay strong, Russian puppets don’t last long. Hope to see you in EU one day!”

Šakalienė’s remarks come amid increasing international criticism of Georgia’s ruling party, accused of stifling democratic freedoms and pushing the country away from its European trajectory.