German Bundestag chief says Lithuania has been right about Russia threat

VILNIUS - German Bundestag President Julia Klockner said on Thursday that Lithuania has always been right about the threat posed by Russia.

"You were right all along about Russia. In 2022, when Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, you immediately understood that the future of Europe would be decided in Ukraine," Klockner told the Seimas.

"Lithuanians understand that Russia will not stop, and that Putin must be stopped in Ukraine. What Russia is doing is not only a war against Ukraine, but against our democratic values and freedom. The Baltic states realised this very early on," she added

Klockner stated that Lithuania's determined stance serves as an example for Western Europe and Germany itself, noting that both countries now share a unified view of Russia.

The Bundestag President also highlighted the significance of Berlin's decision to station a brigade in Lithuania.

"Men and women are arriving with their families, children are going to schools and kindergartens – this means we are not here for a short time," she said.

Germany plans to deploy 4,000 to 5,000 troops in Lithuania by the end of 2027, with infrastructure currently being prepared at the Rudninkai military campus.

"Germany wants to say very clearly: Germany is and will remain on Lithuania's side. We are on Ukraine's side and will remain on the side of European freedom," Klockner added.

Following her speech, she met with President Gitanas Nauseda to discuss bilateral relations, regional security, and support for Ukraine.

"Lithuania and Germany are strategic partners and closest allies. We are grateful to Germany for its long-term commitment to the security of Lithuania and the region. Germany's role in ensuring peace in Europe, including the eastern flank, is exceptional," the President said.

Nauseda emphasised that bilateral defence cooperation has reached a historic level, with the primary priority being the preparation to host the German brigade. He also stressed the need for the continued implementation of NATO's rotational air defence model.

"Germany is our most important ally in arms cooperation. The value of Lithuania's acquisitions from Germany already exceeds 2 billion euros. Lithuania is purchasing Leopard 2 tanks, Boxer armoured vehicles, and PzH 2000 howitzers. This forms a solid basis for our strategic defence partnership," Nauseda said.

Klockner also met with Seimas Speaker Juozas Olekas to discuss parliamentary dialogue, economic cooperation, and preparations for Lithuania's upcoming presidency of the European Union Council.

Olekas praised Germany's leadership in the Baltic Sea region, stating that its commitment to strengthening security is fundamental to European stability. He also noted the importance of ensuring the necessary infrastructure for the permanent deployment of the German brigade.