In a recent meeting of the Lithuanian Parliament's committee, representatives from various ministries were invited to discuss the management of state reserves. Artūras Skardžius, the committee chairman, expressed concerns over the negligence in handling these reserves, indicating a level of crime due to inaction rather than outright sabotage. He raised alarm over Lithuania’s preparedness in light of geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. Skardžius questioned why the nation has been complacent and not actively managing essential reserves like food, medicine, and fuel.

The discussion highlighted the urgency of addressing the state reserves situation, with the committee emphasizing that while there may not have been immediate threats identified, there is a critical need for more proactive measures. The chairman criticized the failure to accumulate and reserve necessary goods in retail networks, stating that complacency could lead to dire consequences. He pointed out that despite the serious geopolitical climate, no representatives from trading networks were invited to the meeting, which may limit the comprehensive understanding of the food and supply situation.

Skardžius also mentioned that a recent state audit report indicates that the concern surrounding drinking water supplies is notably lower compared to other areas, emphasizing the need for increased vigilance across all aspects of the state reserves. As the discussions continue, it becomes crucial for Lithuania's leaders to recognize the implications of under-preparedness in the face of external threats, such as conflicts that could disrupt supply chains.