Germany deploys armored brigade to Lithuania amid Russian threats
Germany has decided to station an armored brigade in Lithuania, marking the first such move since World War II. "We must ensure our Lithuanian allies' protection, " General Christoph Huber emphasized.
What do you need to know?
- Germany has decided to station an armored brigade in Lithuania in response to Russia's threat and the unstable situation on NATO's eastern flank.
Why is Germany strengthening Lithuania?
According to RMF FM, Germany decided to station an armored brigade in Lithuania in response to Russia's growing threat and the unstable situation on NATO's eastern flank.
Brigade General Christoph Huber emphasized that the goal is to ensure the protection, freedom, and security of Lithuanian allies. - Here, on NATO's eastern flank, we must ensure the protection, freedom, and security of our Lithuanian allies - conveyed Huber.
On Tuesday, the stationing of the brigade, which will ultimately consist of 5,000 personnel, was officially approved. A temporary headquarters has been established on-site, and the unit's emblem was unveiled during the ceremony. The brigade will achieve full operational capability by 2027, with its main base at the barracks complex and training ground in Rudnikai.
What are the consequences of this move?
The decision for the long-term deployment of German troops in Lithuania breaks Berlin's post-war restraint against sending its soldiers abroad. "A milestone has already been achieved" - stated the German Armed Forces Association (DBWV) in a statement. The deployment of the 45th Armored Brigade in Lithuania is the first case of a permanent presence of German troops abroad since World War II.
Germany's concerning forecasts regarding Russia
The General Inspector of the Bundeswehr, General Carsten Breuer, assessed that Russia is preparing for a large-scale war and will be ready for it by 2029. - In recent years, Putin made it "very clear" that he is not solely interested in Ukraine - he emphasized.
- Russia is arming itself, has doubled the number of its soldiers, and is clearly directing its military structures toward the West - said Breuer in ARD's program. - By moving the conflict to the West, Putin will secure his power in Russia - he added.
Source: RMF24/PAP
