Lithuania receives commitment of backing from the German president during his visit to Vilnius.
In a significant move, Germany has announced plans to station approximately 5,000 soldiers from an armoured brigade permanently in Lithuania from 2027. This marks the first time since the Nazi era that Germany has permanently stationed troops in a foreign country, signalling a major shift in German military and foreign policy in response to the Russia-Ukraine war.
The deployment is intended to strengthen NATO's eastern flank and protect the Baltic country against potential Russian aggression, particularly given Lithuania's proximity to the Belarus border, where Russia and Belarus conduct joint military exercises. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier framed the deployment as a "lasting promise" of mutual security and loyalty within NATO, emphasising that defending Lithuania equates to defending Europe and its values.
Steinmeier, during his visit to Vilnius, Lithuania, also acknowledged Lithuania's concerns about its security. He stated, "freedom is not a condition. Freedom is a task," and added, "your security is our security." Steinmeier and Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda stood together for the freedom of Ukraine, the principle of self-determination, and European unity.
For Lithuania, which shares a nearly 300 km border with Russia and has historical concerns about Russian ambitions, the permanent stationing of a German armoured brigade represents a concrete and reassuring commitment from a major European power. The brigade, mainly Germany’s 45th Armoured Brigade, will reach full combat readiness by 2027 with comprehensive supplies and equipment, making it a credible deterrent force on NATO’s eastern boundary.
This move sends a clear political and military message to Russia that Europe, through NATO and Germany, is committed to safeguarding its eastern borders and will not be complacent amid ongoing Russian threats or expansionist actions. The deployment underscores European unity and preparedness against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Elsewhere, Poland is introducing border controls with Germany and Lithuania due to migration concerns. Meanwhile, the San Fermin bull-running festival in Spain has begun with a firework blast calling for the liberation of Palestine. The Dalai Lama celebrated his 90th birthday with thousands of devotees in India.
The deployment of the German armoured brigade in Lithuania, a move in response to the Russia-Ukraine war, signifies a shift in political strategies and general news discussions, as it aims to strengthen NATO's stance against potential Russian aggression. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier's visit to Vilnius reinforced the commitment to Lithuania's security, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and unity in war-and-conflicts scenarios, especially within the context of European politics.
