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Gitanas Nausėda met with the President of Germany

President of the Republic of Lithuania

July 06, 2025

President Gitanas Nausėda met with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who is visiting Lithuania on the occasion of State Day (Day of Coronation of King Mindaugas) and National Anthem Day. The two Presidents discussed bilateral relations, cooperation in the areas of defense, security, economy, and culture, the situation in Ukraine, and further actions in response to Russia.

President Gitanas Nausėda thanked the German President for his visit on this symbolic day for Lithuania, underscoring that Germany is a close and trusted ally.

The bilateral meeting placed significant emphasis on defense cooperation. President Gitanas Nausėda noted that cooperation between Lithuania and Germany has reached a historic level, marked by the official inauguration of the German Brigade 'Lithuania' in Vilnius just a month ago. In less than two years since the decision was made, international agreements have been signed, infrastructure development has begun in Rūdninkai, the brigade's headquarters has been established, and the first soldiers have arrived. This, the President said, is a clear demonstration of the allies' commitment to collective defense. The Lithuanian leader also highlighted the importance of continuing to implement NATO's rotational air defense model.

Gitanas Nausėda noted that Lithuania and Germany are also working closely in the defense industry. Lithuania's defense acquisitions from Germany now exceed €2 billion and include Leopard 2 tanks, Boxer armored vehicles, and PzH 2000 howitzers. In addition, construction of a Rheinmetall ammunition production facility is set to begin in Lithuania in the near future.

The situation in Ukraine was another topic of discussion. President Gitanas Nausėda stressed that Russia's war against Ukraine is an existential threat to the European security architecture and called for continued robust support for Ukraine. He expressed gratitude to Germany for its substantial military and financial assistance to Ukraine. The two leaders also reviewed the activities of the Coalition of the Willing, in which both countries play an active role.

Further steps to increase pressure on Russia were also discussed, including the EU's 18th sanctions package against Russia, measures to combat shadow oil exports, and the review of oil price caps. President Gitanas Nausėda welcomed Germany's decision to tighten tanker regulations in the Baltic Sea starting 1 July.

Military mobility was another focus of the meeting. The Lithuanian President emphasized that the ability to move forces swiftly across Europe is essential for deterrence and collective defense. Lithuania's own needs in this area amount to €3.5 billion, therefore, it is crucial to secure sufficient funding for strategic infrastructure projects.

The President's Communication Group