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The President and the German Federal Chancellor discussed regional security and defense

President of the Republic of Lithuania

May 22, 2025

On Thursday, President Gitanas Nausėda met at the Presidential Palace with German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who is on an official visit to Lithuania. This is the Chancellor's first visit to Lithuania and the Baltic States since he took office two weeks ago.

The President thanked the Chancellor for Germany's strong commitment to regional security and for the decision to permanently station the 45th Armored Brigade in Lithuania. He called it a clear demonstration of Germany's leadership and a historic step towards strengthening NATO's eastern flank. Gitanas Nausėda emphasized that Lithuania is fully prepared to host the brigade by 2027: construction of a military campus is already underway in Rūdninkai, the necessary infrastructure is being developed, and a kindergarten and school will open in Vilnius this September to accommodate the children of arriving Bundeswehr personnel.

Military acquisitions were also discussed in the meeting, with the President noting that Germany is Lithuania's main partner in this area. The total value of bilateral contracts already exceeds €2 billion. Lithuania is acquiring Leopard tanks, Boxer fighting vehicles, and howitzers. Construction of the Rheinmetall ammunition plant will begin in Lithuania this year, marking the largest defense project in the country's history.

The meeting also addressed broader economic cooperation. The President highlighted that Germany is Lithuania's largest investor and one of the most important trading partners. He noted the growth of German companies in Lithuania and the significance of joint projects in defense, technology, and energy. Gitanas Nausėda thanked the German government for its support for these projects and called for further strengthening of economic ties.

The President and the Chancellor also discussed the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague. Gitanas Nausėda emphasized the importance of a clear message to allies: that we are united, ready, and determined. "Lithuania supports an ambitious defense spending target of 5% of GDP, which we will reach as early as next year. This is our clear response to growing security challenges," he pointed out.

Support for Ukraine was another major focus of the meeting. The President stressed that it is Europe's duty to continue its unwavering support for Ukraine by increasing pressure on the aggressor. Russia's refusal to agree to a ceasefire, he said, only makes it more urgent to step up sanctions and consolidate military aid. He expressed appreciation for Germany's substantial military support and called for continuing and strengthening this leadership, including through active participation in the Coalition of the Willing.

"We must see this as an opportunity for Europe to come together and defend what truly matters— peace, freedom, and democracy—with decisive action, not just words," the President said.

Gitanas Nausėda thanked Friedrich Merz for visiting Lithuania, calling the visit a symbol of strong partnership and shared responsibility for Europe's security. The Lithuanian leader expressed hope for even deeper strategic cooperation in all areas of mutual interest.

Addressing the German Chancellor, the President pointed out that Lithuania welcomed with great joy the news that Germany intends to build the strongest conventional armed forces in Europe.

"From the very first days in office, you have expressed the strong and unbending spirit of the new Europe. Europe that not only talks about unity and solidarity but also turns these words into concrete actions. Europe that responds to the greatest security challenge of this century by enhancing its capabilities and strengthening external borders," Gitanas Nausėda spoke.

According to the President, Lithuania—having re-established a national division and committed to spending more than 5% of its GDP on defense starting next year—intends to fulfil its duties as a NATO member with honor.

Addressing the German brigade, Gitanas Nausėda thanked them for their decision to serve in Lithuania and assured them that they would receive the best possible training and living conditions.

"Your presence here strengthens not only Lithuania and Germany. Thanks to you, all Europe is becoming stronger," the Head of State spoke.

The President's Communication Group