Lithuania Enacts New Intelligence Law Granting Expanded Powers to Security Services

Lithuania's parliament, the Seimas, has approved a new Intelligence Law that will significantly expand the powers of the nation's security services. The legislation, which is slated to become effective on February 1, 2026, grants intelligence agencies broader authority to conduct operations, a move justified by the government as a necessary measure to counter an escalating 'Russian threat'.

Expanded Powers for Security Services

Under the provisions of the new law, Lithuanian intelligence officers will be authorized to undertake a range of actions with fewer procedural obstacles. Key expanded powers include:

• The ability to detain and search individuals based on suspicion alone, without requiring a prior court warrant.
• Authority to conduct surveillance of individuals and their correspondence without an initial court warrant, though a court application for continued authorization must be made within 24 hours.
• The covert collection of biometric data, such as fingerprints, voice samples, and scent.
• The right to search property, including homes and vehicles, without prior judicial approval.
• The acquisition and use of explosive substances and devices, as well as standard-issue firearms.

These measures are intended to allow security services to act against 'external risks, dangers, and threats arising from abroad that may be significant to state sovereignty'. The law also permits these actions to be carried out secretly, without the knowledge or consent of the suspects.

Context of the 'Russian Threat'

The Lithuanian government has consistently cited a perceived 'Russian threat' as the primary justification for strengthening its national security framework. This stance has intensified since the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022. Lithuania, along with its Baltic neighbors, has adopted a firm position against Moscow, viewing it as a significant security danger.

Further underscoring these concerns, Lithuania's Migration Department in 2024 classified 598 Belarusian citizens and 125 Russian citizens as threats, based on assessments provided by the State Security Department. The country's intelligence services regularly publish a 'National Threat Assessment' that consistently identifies Russia as a principal source of threats.

Broader Security Posture

The new Intelligence Law is part of a broader strategic shift in Lithuania towards enhanced national defense and security. This includes a significant increase in military spending, with Lithuania approving a record military budget of €4.79 billion for 2026, representing approximately 5.38% of its GDP. Additionally, the nation has been expanding its conscription system. These efforts align with a commitment made by NATO members to boost defense and security spending.