Lithuanian Defenders of Freedom Protest Government Policies, Echoing January 13th Spirit
Lithuania is witnessing a resurgence of civic activism, as individuals who defended the nation’s independence during the January 1991 Soviet crackdown voiced their discontent with current government policies. Protesters displayed signs bearing slogans like “You are not working for Lithuania,” alongside symbols associated with previous demonstrations organized by the cultural community, signaling growing concerns over freedom of speech and recent amendments to legislation governing LRT, Lithuania’s national broadcaster.
The demonstration unfolded during a speech by Speaker of the Seimas, J. Olekas, prompting a response that underscored the importance of democratic principles. “Today, we can have different opinions, use different methods of protest to express our views,” Olekas stated. “But we fought for such a democratic Lithuania, so that everyone could express their opinion, and we could all defend it together.” He further emphasized the enduring relevance of the events of January 13th, asserting that “freedom requires vigilance, and the security of the state begins with people who are ready to defend it not with words, but with actions.”
Olekas acknowledged the right to dissent, telling reporters he was “glad that they can have their own opinion,” even while disagreeing with the protesters’ message. This sentiment reflects a commitment to upholding democratic values, even in the face of criticism.
However, the protesters’ motivations run deep. Arūnas, a participant holding one of the placards, explained that the demonstration was a direct response to the current government’s actions. “The government is the face of the nation, but I doubt whether this government is the face of the nation,” he said, expressing frustration with what he described as a series of escalating problems related to LRT, cultural policies, and broader governance issues.
The concerns extend beyond domestic policy. Antanas Kliunka, commander of the defenders’ unit of the Supreme Council, highlighted the involvement of some protesters in supporting Ukraine, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to defending freedom. He voiced strong criticism of the current political leadership, alleging undue influence. “As currently both the Speaker of the Seimas and the President… I don’t know what kind of kompromat Žemaitaitis has that controls them, how Putin controls Trump,” Kliunka stated, expressing a deep distrust of the government’s direction. He went on to draw a stark parallel between current policies and the aggression seen in Ukraine, referencing the destruction of the Mariupol drama theater.
The meeting where Olekas spoke also included presentations from Raimundas Vaikšnoras, commander of the German brigade in Lithuania, Christophas Huber, a representative of the NATO force integration unit, Lieutenant Colonel Giovanni Serra, Olha Mosondz, an official from Ukraine’s Supreme Intelligence Board, and Jevhenas Dykyjus, a defender of the Lithuanian Parliament and former Ukrainian battalion commander. This diverse group of speakers underscores Lithuania’s commitment to international cooperation and security.
The protests coincide with the annual commemoration of the January 13th events, a pivotal moment in Lithuania’s struggle for independence. In January 1991, Soviet forces attempted to overthrow the democratically elected government, resulting in the deaths of 14 civilians when they stormed the Vilnius TV tower and the Radio and Television Committee. Those killed were Loreta Asanavičiūtė, Virginijus Druskis, Darius Gerbutavičius, Rolandas Jankauskas, Rimantas Juknevičius, Alvydas Kanapinskas, Algimantas Petras Kavoliukas, Vytautas Koncevičius, Vidas Maciulevičius, Titas Masiulis, Alvydas Matulka, Apolinars Juozas Povilaitis, Ignas Šimulionis, Vytautas Vaitkus, and Stasys Mačiulskas, who succumbed to his injuries in April 1991. Despite occupying the television tower and radio building, Soviet troops refrained from attacking the Supreme Council, which was defended by thousands of citizens.
The current protests serve as a potent reminder of the sacrifices made to secure Lithuania’s freedom and the ongoing need for vigilance in safeguarding democratic values. The echoes of January 13th resonate today, fueling a renewed commitment to defending the nation’s sovereignty and ensuring a future where freedom of speech remains uncompromised.
