Germany Deploys 5,000 Soldiers to NATO Eastern Flank in Lithuania

Germany has deployed its new Armored Brigade 45 to Lithuania, marking its first permanent foreign troop deployment since World War II, as part of NATO's efforts to strengthen its eastern flank against potential threats from Russia. Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized Germany's commitment to defend all NATO territory and highlighted the importance of European defense capabilities and unity alongside the U.S. The brigade currently includes 500 personnel in Lithuania, with plans to reach full warfighting capacity of 5,000 personnel by 2027, equipped with modern Leopard 2 A8 tanks that Lithuania has also ordered. Merz's visit to Vilnius included meetings with Lithuanian officials to discuss bilateral ties, defense cooperation, and support for Ukraine. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius described the deployment as a strong signal to NATO partners and a deterrent to adversaries. This deployment represents a significant expansion of the Bundeswehr, adding a ninth brigade focused on securing NATO's eastern border.