The withdrawal of Russian troops from Lithuania marked a milestone in the relationship between Russia and the Baltic states following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Negotiations for the withdrawal began in the early 1990s, as Lithuania proclaimed independence from Soviet rule on March 11, 1990. The presence of Russian forces in Lithuania had been a contentious issue, viewed by many Lithuanians as a lingering reminder of Soviet domination. A series of discussions between the Lithuanian government and Russian officials ensued, with both sides focusing on the termination of the military presence. The agreement reached stipulated that Russian troops would depart Lithuania by the end of August 1993.

As the deadline approached, the process was accompanied by various demonstrations and signs of national pride from the Lithuanian populace, eager to see their country free of foreign troops. The departure of the last Russian soldier symbolized not only the end of an era for Lithuania but also a broader shift in Eastern Europe as nations emerged from the shadow of Soviet control and sought integration with Western Europe, including aspirations for NATO and EU membership.

This moment was significant in asserting Lithuania's independence and was welcomed as a step toward normalizing relations with neighboring countries and fostering a sense of national identity. The military pullout was widely seen as a pivotal development in the context of post-Cold War European geopolitics, highlighting the shifts in alliances and power dynamics in the region.