The Lithuanian prosecutor's office has revealed that the arson of the IKEA store in Vilnius was part of a calculated terrorist operation orchestrated by Russian intelligence agencies, as reported by LRT. The charges have been brought against a Ukrainian minor, who, according to investigators, acted as part of a prearranged terrorist group. The trial will begin at the Vilnius District Court.
The prosecution's statement highlights that the accused was part of a terrorist organization, led by groups with ties to Russian military intelligence and security services. The target of the attack—an IKEA store—was no coincidence, given the company's decision to close its operations in Russia and its strong support for Ukraine.
"The indictment has been signed, and the case is moving to the Vilnius District Court, charging one individual with terrorist-related criminal acts," said Artūras Urbelis, the Chief Prosecutor of the Department for the Investigation of Organized Crime and Corruption, during a press conference.
The suspect faces charges of committing a terrorist act, preparing crimes for terrorist purposes, and illegally possessing explosives. According to Artūras Urbelis, head of the Department for the Investigation of Organized Crime and Corruption, the perpetrators were two young individuals under the age of 20. One of them was promised a reward of 10,000 euros and a BMW car.
Investigators have discovered that the accused entered Lithuania through Poland and was apprehended during a special operation in Panevėžys. It was also revealed that he had been gathering intelligence and planning other arson attacks in Lithuania and Latvia. After committing the crime, he fled to Warsaw, where he received his promised reward.
Moreover, a larger terrorist network involving both Russian and Lithuanian nationals has been uncovered. This network operated through encrypted communication channels, with orders being transmitted across multiple levels.
At present, the suspect remains in custody, and the investigation is ongoing. This case serves as a stark reminder of the extent to which Russia is willing to go to wage war beyond the borders of Ukraine, targeting civilian infrastructure and even attempting to manipulate individuals to carry out these acts of violence. The international community must respond with unwavering resolve, ensuring that such blatant acts of terrorism do not go unpunished.
