A Historic Military Move
Germany permanent troops stationed abroad mark first full brigade deployment since WWII, signaling a major defense shift. The decision places 5,000 German troops in Lithuania by 2027.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the deployment on May 22 in Vilnius, Lithuania. The 45th Armored Brigade will be based in Rukla and Rudninkai. Helicopters flew overhead as German and Lithuanian leaders marked the inauguration.
NATO’s Eastern Flank Strengthened
“This is a historic day,” said Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda. He called the move a sign of “trust, responsibility, and action.”
The deployment boosts NATO’s eastern defenses. Lithuania borders both Russia’s Kaliningrad region and Belarus. Merz stated: “Protecting Vilnius is protecting Berlin.”
Germany had previously sent troops to Lithuania in 2017. But this new brigade represents a long-term commitment.
Germany’s Military Rebuild
Chancellor Merz, a former Bundeswehr soldier, vowed to build “Europe’s strongest conventional army.” He emphasized that Germany is “investing massively” in its armed forces.
After Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Germany pledged a $113 billion defense fund. That fund will be spent by 2027, prompting new budget changes to allow more defense spending.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said Germany plans to raise military spending by 0.2% of GDP each year for the next five to seven years.
Lithuania Boosts Its Budget
Lithuania pledged to raise its defense spending to 5–6% of GDP next year. That would make it the first NATO country to meet the 5% goal encouraged by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
A NATO-wide plan is underway to push all allies toward spending 3.5% of GDP on defense, plus 1.5% more on infrastructure.
Merz called these goals “sensible and reachable” by 2032.
Standing with Ukraine
Chancellor Merz also reiterated Germany’s support for Ukraine. “We stand firmly by Ukraine,” he said. He stressed working closely with Europe and the United States to achieve peace and security.
Source: CNN