The seizure of the television center in Vilnius, 1991

2016, Lviv Television. The programme ‘Lessons’ is dedicated to the tragic events in the Republic of Lithuania on 11-13 January 1991. Hosted by Yaroslav Kendzor.

The video contains sensitive content.

The video includes: opening credits, studio, introduction by Yaroslav Kendzor, an archived episode of the programme ‘Parliamentary Studio’ from 11 January 2011, archived footage of the events during the storming of the television centre in Vilnius by Soviet troops and the confrontation with Lithuanians over their desire for independence. Studio guests: Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to Ukraine Vytautas Piatras; Deputy Ambassador Marius Janukonis.

Background: The events of 11–13 January 1991 in Vilnius, known as the January events, were an attempt by the Soviet authorities to use force to prevent Lithuania from leaving the USSR. Soviet troops stormed the TV tower and other strategic objects in the city; as a result of the confrontation, 14 civilians were killed and hundreds were wounded. These events accelerated the international recognition of Lithuania's independence and became a symbol of resistance to the Soviet regime.

Video from Yaroslav Kendzor's personal archive.