Germany deploys troops to Lithuania, reinforcing its eastern flank

(Baonghean.vn) - On February 7, hundreds of German soldiers arrived in Lithuania. This is part of a multinational NATO battalion deployed here. This is part of the military alliance's efforts to strengthen its forces on the eastern flank, thereby responding to actions considered provocative by Russia.

The battalion is one of four NATO battalions deployed to Lithuania and three other countries on a rotational basis to counter perceived Russian aggression. The German contingent will lead the force, which will include soldiers from Belgium, the Netherlands and France. The force will reach 1,200 members this spring.

German soldiers at the airport in the capital Vilnius, Lithuania. Photo: Press TV.

Speaking at the Rukla military base, northwest of the capital Vilnius, Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite said the unprecedented alliance presence in Lithuania “is intended to significantly enhance NATO’s deterrence capabilities,” during the “military buildup around our borders and to counter provocations in our region.”

Also present at the Rukla base, German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the presence of German soldiers, saying “this move sends a clear and important message to all: NATO stands strong and united.”

Three similar NATO units, led by the US, Canada and Britain, will be deployed this year in Poland, Latvia and Estonia, which have requested the deployment since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014.

NATO is always concerned about actions from Russia that harm the security of member countries in Eastern Europe. Photo: Sputnik.

Moscow has long criticized NATO for trying to contain Russia. Last year, Moscow deployed nuclear-capable Iskander missiles to its Kaliningrad enclave, which borders Lithuania and Poland, prompting concern from NATO officials who called it a “major threat” to the security of NATO members, including Lithuania. The deployment of troops to Lithuania is therefore seen as a tangible demonstration of the alliance’s commitment to the security of the northeastern European country.

In recent years, Lithuania has spent about half a billion euros on armored vehicles, artillery and military trucks.

Lan Ha

(According to AFP)