Lithuania: NATO Summit to take place amid tight security in Vilnius July 11-12

Event

The 2023 NATO Summit will be held in Vilnius July 11-12. The event will primarily take place at the Lithuanian Exhibition and Congress Centre (LITEXPO), although related events and meetings will take place throughout the city over the course of the summit. Heads of state from NATO member countries in addition to thousands of foreign dignitaries, staff, and journalists will travel to Vilnius for the event. Police will implement strict security measures throughout the city in coming days to facilitate the gathering. Anti-war protests against the summit are likely for the duration of the event.

The most severe security measures will be implemented around the LITEXPO venue; authorities will almost certainly implement security cordons and road closures in the surrounding area and restrict access to accredited individuals only. Additional security measures will also be imposed at Vilnius Airport (VNO) and other major transport hubs in the city, including rail stations, to facilitate the arrival and departure of high-level dignitaries. Sporadic disruptions are likely on roads and transport hubs throughout Vilnius as attendees are escorted to and from events.

Authorities announced that Lithuania would impose identity checks on internal EU borders, thereby suspending the Schengen regulations for freedom of movement 08:00 July 7-08:00 July 13.

Anti-war protests are likely throughout the period. Additional police will deploy to monitor all gatherings; related security measures such as road closures and movement restrictions will likely prompt localized business and transport disruptions in surrounding areas. Most actions are likely to proceed peacefully though isolated clashes between police and activists cannot be ruled out, particularly if protesters attempt to breach security cordons around summit venues.

Advice

Confirm all travel arrangements if operating in Vilnius July 11-12. Allow considerable extra time for travel, including at VNO, as increased security measures will cause transport disruptions. Check local traffic conditions and public transport schedules for disruptions and plan alternative routes if necessary. Verify appointments, as business closures could occur with little notice. Consider limiting exposure to the immediate vicinity of the event venue and other restricted areas. Avoid any demonstrations that occur. Heed all instructions from security services; leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.