Lithuania marks 33rd anniversary of final Russian military withdrawal

Lithuania marks Freedom Day, commemorating the 33rd anniversary of the final withdrawal of Russian military forces from the country. The historical event concluded on August 31, 1993, when the last military echelon departed via the Kenė railway station.

Commemorative events are held at the Vilnius Railway Station, featuring an interactive installation titled ‘Besąlygiškos laisvės link’ (Towards Unconditional Freedom) and a series of discussions known as ‘Laisvės pokalbiai’ (Freedom Conversations). Participants include historians, security experts, and government officials.

Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius emphasized that freedom was won through the struggle of the people and noted that current geopolitical tensions, including the war in Ukraine, necessitate continued investment in national defense. Following the restoration of independence in 1990, Lithuania initially hosted approximately 34,600 foreign troops, 1,000 tanks, and 180 aircraft before the multi-year negotiation process led to the full withdrawal of occupying forces.