Lithuania not among countries that disappointed US, defence minister says

Lithuania is not on the list of NATO allies that have frustrated the United States over their stance on the conflict with Iran, Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas said Thursday, adding that Washington has no plans to reduce its troop presence in the country.

Speaking during the government’s hourly session in the Seimas, Kaunas addressed recent criticism from US President Donald Trump, who has expressed dissatisfaction with several alliance members for what he sees as insufficient support in securing commercial shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

“We all see and hear the rising tensions and discussions surrounding Iran,” Kaunas stated. “However, Lithuania is not mentioned among the countries that have disappointed the United States. We are recognised as allies who demonstrate through actions and resolve that we stand together. Therefore, the presence of allied troops in Lithuania will only grow.”

The minister emphasised that the US is not considering any reduction in its military personnel stationed in Lithuania. “Such discussions have taken place and continue, but at present, we have done all our homework to ensure US soldiers feel at home here,” he said.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed that Trump had expressed “clear disappointment” with several transatlantic alliance members during their meeting at the White House on Wednesday. The US president has repeatedly criticised allies for not providing adequate assistance to the US and Israel in the conflict with Iran.

The Wall Street Journal reported that the White House is weighing measures to penalise certain alliance members whom Trump believes failed to support the US and Israel during the war with Iran. While Trump’s remarks have raised concerns about a potential US withdrawal from NATO—a move requiring a two-thirds Senate majority, considered highly unlikely—Rutte downplayed the criticism, noting that not all allies are convinced the conflict aligns with international law.

NATO maintains its position that Iran’s nuclear capabilities and ballistic missile programme must be curtailed, Rutte said.