Belgium is deploying over 200 soldiers to Lithuania starting next week Belgian defence minister Theo Francken (Flemish nationalist N-VA) has announced. Since the war in Ukraine and the increased Russian threat, NATO has increased its military presence in Eastern Europe, and that means Belgians are also being deployed, Mr Francken said.
Belgium sends 200 soldiers to Lithuania to beef up NATO’s military presence in Eastern Europe
Colin Clapson
Published:
Sending troops is part of “Enhanced Forward Presence”, a NATO plan to increase its military presence in the Baltic states in response to the growing Russian threat. The plan was initiated in 2016, but since the war in Ukraine, the threat has but increased.
The Belgians will stay in Lithuania from the end of July this year until 31 January 2026.
‘This deployment shows our continued willingness to take responsibility within the alliance,’ Mr Francken said. ‘It is a clear expression of solidarity with our NATO allies on the eastern flank.’
The deployment of the Belgian military comes at the request of Germany. 'This strengthens bilateral ties with Germany which is an important strategic partner. It allows us to show Germany that they can count on Belgium.'
The decision still needs to be approved by the Belgian cabinet.