The plane, which landed at Kaunas Airport, carried 70 German soldiers. They will strengthen the German unit of 360 men, which is part of the existing alliance forces in the region. More planes are to follow.
–
German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht announced a week ago that Germany would increase its troops in Lithuania by up to 350. The federal republic responded to tensions caused by a large number of Russian troops on the Ukrainian border and, according to observers, criticized for not doing enough for Ukraine.
–
A signal of determination
“We are strengthening our contribution on NATO’s eastern flank and sending a signal of determination,” Lambrecht said in a week ago in Münster, Lower Saxony, informing parliament of the move.
–
German troops arrived in Kaunas, Lithuania.
Photo: Ints Kalnins, Reuters
The Federal Republic of Lithuania is leading a NATO battle group in the strength of a reinforced battalion. Other such groupings are in the east of the alliance in Poland, Latvia and Estonia. Czech soldiers are also present in Lithuania and Latvia.
–
Germany has repeatedly faced criticism that it has been too supportive of Moscow, which, despite opposition from the United States and other countries, has been cooperating in the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline for years. Berlin refuses. Chancellor Olaf Scholz, for example, argued that it was the federal republic that provided the largest financial aid to Ukraine.
–
“In a spirit of solidarity, the United Kingdom will send a small number of troops to support Lithuania in intelligence gathering, surveillance and reconnaissance. This will help strengthen Lithuania’s ability to deal with Lithuania.” with pressures along its border with Belarus, “the British Ministry of Defense said on Twitter.
–
German NATO troops
Photo: Ints Kalnins, Reuters
“The United Kingdom and Lithuania share concerns about Russia’s military strengthening on the border with Ukraine and the current migration crisis on Lithuania’s border with Belarus,” Wallace said.
—
