US fully committed to Lithuania’s defence, says NATO Europe commander

The United States remains fully committed to defending Lithuania, the head of NATO forces in Europe and commander of US European Command (EUCOM) General Alexus Grynkevičius said in Vilnius on Tuesday, LRT reports.

Speaking at a press conference, Grynkevičius addressed recent statements by US President Donald Trump regarding plans to reduce American troop numbers in Germany. “Regarding the 5,000 troops [to be withdrawn from Germany], I believe the Pentagon will announce details about their composition in the coming days,” he said. “I don’t have information I could share here and now on where or how those troops might be relocated. But I can assure you that the United States is fully committed to the defence of Lithuania and all Eastern Flank nations, particularly the Baltic states.”

The general emphasised that NATO allies in the Baltics are increasing both efforts and defence spending. “Our relationships with Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are historic, strong, and I am very proud to be here today,” he added.

**Lithuania could host up to 1,000 relocated US troops**
Lithuania’s Chief of Defence Lieutenant General Valdemaras Rupšys said the country could accommodate an additional 1,000 US troops if needed, citing existing infrastructure. “Assessing Lithuania’s capabilities, we could house and provide training conditions for a battalion-sized unit,” Rupšys told reporters. “Given that we already host several US units, if decisions are made quickly, we could confidently take in another 1,000 troops.”

The US president last week suggested that troops withdrawn from Germany could be redeployed to Poland, whose leadership has since confirmed readiness to receive them. The US government previously announced plans to pull around 5,000 troops from Germany over the next 6–12 months, though Trump indicated the number could be “significantly higher.”

**Lithuania prepares contribution to Strait of Hormuz security mission**
Following the State Defence Council’s approval of Lithuania’s participation in international maritime security operations in the Strait of Hormuz, Rupšys said the country has meaningful capabilities to offer despite its modest size. “There are decisions to contribute and assist in ensuring free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Our capabilities may seem small at first glance, but in reality, we have something to offer,” he stated.

Lithuania plans to focus on demining expertise and staff officers, with up to 40 military and civilian personnel potentially deployed. The Defence Council’s decision, made in writing on Monday, will now be reviewed by the government before parliamentary approval. The presidency noted Lithuania is also prepared to provide logistical support and access to its military infrastructure in response to US needs.