Germany Inaugurates First Permanent Brigade in Lithuania to Bolster NATO's Eastern Flank

Germany has officially inaugurated its 45th Armored Brigade in Lithuania, marking the first permanent deployment of a full German military brigade outside its borders since World War II. This deployment, part of NATO's efforts to strengthen its eastern flank in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, involves roughly 5,000 troops, including tanks and other military assets, with full operational capacity expected by 2027. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized Germany's commitment to NATO and European security, stating that protecting Lithuania is synonymous with protecting Germany, and assured that the alliance would defend every inch of its territory. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda hailed the event as a historic moment for both countries and a landmark for NATO's security architecture in Europe. The brigade's presence aims to deter Russian aggression and reinforce the Baltic states, with Germany also pledging increased defense spending amid pressure from the U.S. to boost NATO contributions. This move represents a significant shift in German military policy, known as the “Zeitenwende,” reflecting a new era of permanent overseas military presence for Germany.