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The President: Germany's contribution to collective defense is invaluable

President of the Republic of Lithuania

June 26, 2023

On Monday, President Gitanas Nausėda met in Pabradė with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who is visiting the joint Lithuanian-German Exercise Griffin Storm.

The President and the German Defense Minister discussed bilateral defense cooperation between Lithuania and Germany, the security situation in the region, as well as preparations for the NATO Summit to be held in Vilnius on 11-12 July.

"The threats posed by Russia are only increasing. Therefore, an increased allied presence in Lithuania of the size of a combat brigade unit is a necessity dictated by reality. We see and appreciate Germany's efforts. The role of Germany as a leader, both in strengthening national armed forces and in contributing to collective defense, is of utmost importance," the President underlined.

Gitanas Nausėda stressed that Lithuania is intensively preparing for the arrival and permanent deployment of the German brigade by developing its military infrastructure and training facilities. Lithuania expects to be ready by 2026, but the training area can already be used now if needed.

President Gitanas Nausėda also thanked Germany for securing Lithuania's skies during the NATO Summit with the Patriot air defense system. According to the Lithuanian leader, this is a good start towards enabling the rotational air defense model recently adopted by the Allies, which is crucial for strengthening NATO's eastern flank.

Speaking on Russia's war against Ukraine, Gitanas Nausėda stressed that security and stability in Europe will only be ensured by Ukraine's victory and its integration into Western organizations, including NATO.

"As the NATO Summit in Vilnius approaches, there is an increasing pressure over the future of Ukraine and elements of blackmail, including the possible use of nuclear weapons. We cannot give in to this and we have to set a clear, firm and united course for Ukraine's future membership of NATO. Allied unity is, of course, very important, but it has to create opportunities, not paralyze," the President spoke.