What happened
US President Donald Trump has expressed willingness to consider establishing a permanent US military base in Lithuania. This comes after Lithuania invited the US to consider setting up a permanent base in the country, which shares borders with Russia and Belarus.
Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius stated that the country is prepared to cover the costs associated with a permanent US military presence. He welcomed Trump's response, describing US troops in Lithuania as a crucial deterrent and security guarantee.
Lithuanian Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas also welcomed Trump's comments and expressed his intention to advance the proposal. Kaunas had previously raised the possibility of a permanent US base in Lithuania during a visit to the US in late September.
The proposal is part of Lithuania's efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities and deepen military cooperation with the US and other NATO allies. Currently, US troops serve in Lithuania for nine months as part of NATO's efforts to strengthen its eastern flank amid Russia's war against Ukraine.
