Germany is set to deploy around 5,000 soldiers to Lithuania in 2027, marking the first permanent deployment of German troops since World War II. The move comes as NATO allies refuse to send ground troops into Ukraine. The base in Lithuania is expected to cost around €30 million per month.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius visited troops in Bavaria who will be affected by the move, stating that the conditions of this deployment are unique due to its duration and the presence of families. The decision to reinforce Lithuania follows Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and concerns about potential aggression from Moscow, especially near the border with the Kaliningrad enclave and Belarus.
The stationing of German troops is aimed at protecting Lithuania and preventing potential attacks on the vulnerable ‘Suwalki Gap’ on the Polish-Lithuanian border, just 100 km away from the Russian border. NATO hopes that the presence of German forces will act as a deterrent and enhance security in the region.
The historic deployment signifies Germany’s commitment to supporting its allies in the face of aggression from Russia. With tensions escalating in Eastern Europe, the relocation of German troops to Lithuania represents a significant step in bolstering NATO’s defenses and maintaining stability in the region.
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