In a recent assessment by Lithuanian intelligence agencies regarding national security threats, Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabrielius Landsbergis highlighted the ongoing dependence of the Vilnius and Lithuanian Orthodox Archdiocese on the Moscow Patriarchate, despite its declared desire for independence. He asserted that the activities of Russian secret services within this organization must be curtailed. Drawing parallels to corporate security checks for investments in strategic sectors, he maintained that any ties to Russian entities present unacceptable risks to national interests, especially concerning proximity to strategic assets.

Landsbergis expressed a need to delicately 'remove' individuals linked to Russian influence within the Orthodox Church to safeguard Lithuania’s national security. He acknowledged the potential for this organization to operate as a conduit for influence from Russia and emphasized that such connections must be severed to prevent any detrimental effects on national security. This perspective reflects a broader scrutiny of external influences within domestic institutions, particularly those perceived as aligned with foreign interests.

The commentary from Landsbergis comes on the heels of statements from President Gitanas Nausėda's chief adviser on national security, who cautioned against painting the entire Orthodox Church in Lithuania as a security threat. Deividas Matulionis remarked that it would be 'too bold' to label the entire church as a national security risk, suggesting that caution is required when assessing the church's role in the geopolitical landscape. This conversation highlights the complexities of navigating national security issues while balancing religious freedoms and the operational independence of faith-based organizations in Lithuania.