Why were Nazis in Lithuania welcomed as liberators initially?

Nazis were initially welcomed as liberators in Lithuania due to widespread discontent with Soviet occupation, which had imposed harsh policies and repressions. Many Lithuanians hoped that the Nazis would bring an end to Soviet rule and restore national independence. Additionally, some viewed the German forces as a lesser evil compared to the brutalities experienced under Soviet governance. However, this initial enthusiasm quickly turned to Horror as the Nazis implemented their own oppressive and genocidal policies.