Reacting to information published in the media that persons associated with ultranationalist organizations may be serving in Lithuanian Armed Forces commanders of the Armed Forces claim they will not tolerate radical views, racism, nationalism or views based discrimination.
‘Military service is incompatible with any participation in activities of ultranationalist organizations, doubtful reputation movements which instigate hate and are aimed against state or its citizens.' - said Acting Chief of Defence, Land Forces Commander Major General Jonas Vytautas Žukas.
According to representatives of the Armed Forces, if information about humiliating soldier's name or illegal soldiers' activities is established by the Armed Forces or obtained from law enforcement institutions, legal measures described in law would be started in respect of such violators.
Until now the law enforcement institutions have not yet given an answer whether the individuals belonging to the Armed Forces had taken part in an attack during screening of anti-fascist film in May in Vilnius earlier this year.
‘I would like to emphasize that Armed Forces is a part of the society; more than twelve thousand Lithuanian citizens are serving in the Armed Forces. Therefore I cannot reject the possibility that even if the Armed Forces are executing strict selection, the problems of society cannot be avoided completely. The duty of us all is to not tolerate illegal activities and to find out and solve the problems existing in the Armed Forces' - asserted Major General J. V. Žukas.
Information about a soldier of professional military service participating in the procession of the 11th of March in Vilnius Cathedral square was received. Official investigation was carried out because of the activities of this soldier. The procession in which soldier participated was authorized, therefore he did not breach the military discipline. He was reprimanded in violating Military Code of Ethics.
National Defence Volunteer Forces are also carrying out few investigations due to other soldiers, who possibly could have participated in March procession in Vilnius. Investigations are being continued.
