Strengthening Defense Ties Between Lithuania and Germany
During a meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Vilnius on Sunday, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda discussed key issues, particularly support for Ukraine and pressure on Russia.
Nauseda shared this information on his social media account.
«I discussed with President Steinmeier our close defense collaboration, support for Ukraine, pressure on Russia, and strategic investments in military mobility. Germany remains a key ally in ensuring security and resilience in Europe», - he stated.
Steinmeier, for his part, noted that the decision to deploy a German brigade is a commitment from Berlin to ensure Lithuania's security, according to LRT.
«By deploying the German brigade in Lithuania, we are making a long-term promise: your security is our security as well. This new brigade confirms our mutual responsibility and demonstrates our commitment to the Alliance. We understand that protecting Lithuania means protecting Europe and European values», - Steinmeier said at the flag-raising ceremony on July 6.
In the summer of 2022, Berlin committed to place a military unit of up to a brigade size in Lithuania. Approximately five thousand German military personnel and civilians are expected to be deployed, some of whom will come with their families.
It is anticipated that most of the brigade will be relocated to Lithuania by 2026. According to German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, the brigade will be fully operational by 2027.
The permanent stationing of the German brigade is set to occur at a military training ground near the towns of Rukla and Rudninkai.
