Germany strengthens NATO's eastern flank with Lithuanian presence
Germany has decided to station an armoured brigade in Lithuania, marking the first such move since World War II. "We must ensure our Lithuanian allies' protection, " General Christoph Huber emphasized.
What do you need to know?
- Germany has decided to station an armoured brigade in Lithuania in response to the threat from Russia and the unstable situation on NATO's eastern flank.
- The brigade will achieve full operational capability by 2027, and its main base will be the barracks complex and training ground in Rudnikai.
- The decision to deploy German troops in Lithuania was made in 2023, marking a break with Berlin's post-war taboo.
Why is Germany strengthening Lithuania?
According to RMF FM, Germany made the decision to station an armoured brigade in Lithuania, responding to the growing threat from Russia and the unstable situation on NATO's eastern flank.
Brigade General Christoph Huber emphasized that the goal is to ensure the protection, freedom, and security of Lithuanian allies. "Here, on NATO's eastern flank, we must ensure the protection, freedom, and security of our Lithuanian allies," conveyed Huber.
On Tuesday at 6:00 AM Eastern Time, the stationing of the brigade, which will ultimately consist of 5,000 personnel, was officially approved. A temporary headquarters has been established on-site, and the unit's emblem was unveiled during the ceremony. The brigade will achieve full operational capability by 2027, and its main base will be the barracks complex and training ground in Rudnikai.
What are the consequences of this move?
The decision to deploy German troops long-term in Lithuania breaks Berlin's post-war taboo of avoiding sending its soldiers abroad. "A milestone has already been achieved," stated the German Armed Forces Association (DBWV) in a statement. The deployment of the 45th Armoured Brigade in Lithuania marks the first permanent presence of German troops abroad since World War II.
Germany's concerning forecasts regarding Russia
The General Inspector of the Bundeswehr, General Carsten Breuer, assessed that Russia is preparing for a large-scale war and will be ready for it by 2029. In recent years, Putin made it "very clear" that he is not solely interested in Ukraine, he emphasized.
"Russia is arming itself, has doubled the number of its soldiers, and clearly directs its military structures towards the West," said Breuer in ARD's program. "By moving the conflict to the West, Putin will secure his power in Russia," he added.
Source: RMF24/PAP
