Germany sends thousands of troops to NATO's eastern flank

Almost 3,000 NATO soldiers, mostly from Germany, participated in exercises for six weeks in Lithuania, near the border with Belarus, as part of preparations for the defense of the eastern flank of the Alliance. The Freedom Shield I exercise involved the use of tanks, armored vehicles, drones, and artillery, aimed at deterring Russia. Germany intends to permanently station approximately 4,800 soldiers in Lithuania by the end of 2027, transforming the 45th Armored Brigade into a constant military presence.

This decision marks a first for the Bundeswehr, which has not previously deployed a combat brigade permanently outside national territory. However, Germany is facing a personnel deficit, needing about 2,000 additional soldiers to complete the brigade.

The importance of the mission is highlighted by the close link between the security of Lithuania and that of Germany, in the context of the tensions generated by the war in Ukraine.