Lithuania PM criticizes Merkel over NATO, Russia stance

Lithuania's Prime Minister Algirdas Butkevicius has criticized German chancellor Angela Merkel's statement concerning NATO and Russia.

The German leader ruled out any permanent NATO bases in the Baltics with fears that it would threaten Russia. NATO should not turn back on it's agreements with Russia that limits its scope in the region, the DPA news agency reports.

Baltic officials have called for permanent NATO bases in tithe region amid what they see as a threat from Russia.

However, Merkel added calls for stronger defense would not go unnoticed.

"The NATO summit will decide on a series of measures," Merkel said,  to increase the alliance's responsiveness, including in the Baltic area, which borders Russia.

Butkevicius isn't impressed however. He says Merkel's comments do not contribute to solving problems.

"We, some politicians, discussed among ourselves that certain statements were made too soon and differed from recent ones. I do not wish to evaluate German chancellor's behavior or statements, I can only say that they do not contribute to solving problems faster," Butkevicius told Ziniu Radijas radio on Thursday.

European Union member states should speak with one voice and not say something "which is completely inconceivable," Butkevicius said.

(Edited by Rayyan Sabet-Parry)