Lithuania's safety equals our security, asserts Steinmeier
In a historic move, Germany has announced plans to station a permanent tank brigade in Lithuania by the end of 2027. This deployment, scheduled to be launched during 2025-2026, marks a significant shift in German defense policy post-Cold War.
The 45th Armored Brigade of the German Army, consisting of approximately 4,800 soldiers and 200 civilian personnel, will form a substantial defensive presence in Lithuania. This brigade will be equipped with advanced equipment such as Leopard 2A6 and Leopard 2A7+ tanks, Puma infantry fighting vehicles, PzH 2000 artillery systems, and IRIS-T air defense systems.
Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, accompanied by his wife Elke Büdenbender, is currently in Lithuania to discuss the details of this deployment. Steinmeier has assured Lithuania of Germany's support in defending its freedom, stating that "freedom is not a state, but a task, implying the importance of continued vigilance."
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda considers the German brigade a "powerful signal of European solidarity and responsibility." Nauseda thanked Steinmeier for Germany's determination to stand with Lithuania at the border of Europe, expressing his belief that defending Lithuania defends Europe and its values.
The move is a direct response to heightened security concerns in the Baltic region, with the Baltic states expressing fear of becoming victims of Russian President Vladimir Putin's expansionist ambitions, following the Russian attack on Ukraine. Steinmeier, however, did not mention Russia directly during his speech.
The first group of German soldiers arrived in Lithuania in April 2024 to begin planning and infrastructure coordination, with full brigade deployment proceeding through 2025-2026. This deployment is seen as a symbol of European unity and responsibility, underscoring Germany's commitment to NATO's collective defense.
Germany knows that standing with Lithuania is not just a matter of national security, but a matter of European security. Steinmeier was invited as the guest of honor for Lithuania's national day, further emphasising the strong bond between the two nations. Steinmeier stated that "Germany's security is Lithuania's security," reaffirming Germany's unwavering support for its European allies.
The deployment of the 45th Armored Brigade in Lithuania is a significant shift in German defense policy, which coincides with the discussion of war-and-conflicts and politics in Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier's visit. The strong alliance between Germany and Lithuania, showcased by this deployment, is a symbol of European unity and responsibility amidst heightened security concerns in the Baltic region and general-news.
