The primary reason for the invasion of Lithuania was the Soviet Union's forceful demand for political subservience and military control. On June 15, 1940, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (U.S.S.R.), of which Russia was the largest and most influential constituent republic, issued an ultimatum to Lithuania, leading to its immediate occupation.
Historical Context and Soviet Demands
The Soviet Union's actions against Lithuania were part of a broader geopolitical strategy in Eastern Europe, largely influenced by the secret protocols of the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact signed with Nazi Germany in 1939. This pact effectively divided spheres of influence, placing the Baltic States within the Soviet sphere.
The ultimatum presented by the U.S.S.R. to Lithuania on that pivotal day contained two critical demands:
- Formation of a "Friendly" Government: The Soviet Union demanded the immediate establishment of a government that would be amenable to its political influence and interests. This effectively meant replacing the existing Lithuanian government with one controlled or heavily influenced by Moscow.
- Admission of Unlimited Soviet Troops: A key condition was the immediate admission of an unrestricted number of Soviet troops onto Lithuanian territory. This demand aimed to secure complete military control over the country, ensuring its strategic alignment and preventing any resistance to Soviet intentions.
Upon Lithuania's acceptance under duress, the country was occupied by Soviet forces on the very same day, signifying the end of its interwar independence.
Key Events Leading to Occupation
The sequence of events highlights the swift and decisive nature of the Soviet takeover:
- Geopolitical Alignment: Secret protocols of the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact earmarked Lithuania for Soviet influence.
- Growing Pressure: Leading up to June 1940, the Soviet Union applied increasing political and military pressure on Lithuania and its Baltic neighbors.
- The Ultimatum (June 15, 1940): The U.S.S.R. delivered its non-negotiable demands to the Lithuanian government.
- Immediate Occupation: With the demands either accepted under duress or outright rejected, Soviet troops entered and occupied Lithuania on the same day, establishing direct control.
Summary of the Invasion
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Invading Power | The Soviet Union (U.S.S.R.), with Russia as its dominant republic. |
| Date of Invasion | June 15, 1940 |
| Primary Reasons | Imposed ultimatum demanding: • Immediate formation of a "friendly" government. • Admission of unlimited numbers of Soviet troops to its territory. |
| Context | Part of the broader Soviet expansionist policy in Eastern Europe, following the secret protocols of the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact, which aimed to secure strategic control over the Baltic States. |
| Outcome | Lithuania was occupied immediately following the ultimatum, leading to its incorporation into the Soviet Union. |
The invasion marked the beginning of decades of Soviet rule for Lithuania, ending its short period of independence between the two World Wars.
