Men between the ages of 19 to 26, and graduates of higher education institutions up to age 38, will serve in the country's armed forces.

The latest decision was made by the State Defense Council, a body which comprises Lithuania's president, prime minister, parliament speaker, defense minister, and the head of the country's armed forces, reports local news site Delfi.lt.

"We must reinforce the country's defense capacities. Under new geopolitical circumstances, the Army must be properly prepared for the country's … defense even in times of peace. Today's geopolitical situation requires that we strengthen and speed up the manning of our army," said Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite.