Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Lithuania blames Russia for suspected Starlink infrastructure sabotage attempt
Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevicius has accused Russia of orchestrating an attempted arson attack targeting a facility that hosts Starlink satellite communications equipment. The incident marks the latest alleged hostile action by Moscow against critical infrastructure in the Baltic nation.
LSN Malaysia ·
Prime Minister Sinkevicius stated that Russia was likely responsible for the arson attempt directed at a company operating Starlink hardware, according to Lithuanian officials. The accusation underscores mounting tensions between Vilnius and Moscow, particularly regarding cyber and physical attacks on key infrastructure.
Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by SpaceX, has become strategically important to Eastern European nations, offering communication capabilities that are less vulnerable to traditional ground-based network disruptions. Lithuania, a NATO member sharing a border with Russia, has increasingly relied on such systems to bolster its defence and civilian communications resilience.
The attempted attack reflects broader concerns among Baltic states about Russian sabotage operations targeting critical infrastructure. Lithuania has previously reported suspected Russian involvement in attacks on power grids, telecommunications networks, and other essential services since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Officials have not disclosed specific details regarding the arson attempt, including the exact date or extent of damage. The allegation comes as NATO members in the region intensify security measures to protect vital infrastructure from foreign interference and hostile acts.