Lithuania in ongoing talks to host more US troops, defence minister says

Lithuania is continuously negotiating opportunities to host additional US military personnel, Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas told journalists on Thursday, as reported by the national broadcaster LRT.

“Negotiations [on hosting more troops] are ongoing. We maintain constant contact with the US and present our preparedness—both our host-nation support packages and defence funding, which as a percentage of GDP is the highest among NATO members,” Kaunas stated. He declined to speculate further, adding: “When the signals are favourable, we will certainly share them.”

The minister emphasised Lithuania’s commitment to self-defence, aligning with US expectations for Europe to take greater responsibility for its security. “Lithuania is doing a great deal to defend itself, as are Poland and the Baltic region. At the same time, we must rely on our allies—Germany and the US,” he said.

His remarks follow foreign media reports that the US Department of Defense has paused the planned rotation of over 4,000 combat brigade troops in Europe. Originally scheduled for a nine-month deployment in Poland, the rotation was reportedly halted after US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the withdrawal of roughly 5,000 troops from Germany. Poland later confirmed its readiness to host more US forces.

Kaunas acknowledged receiving information about reduced US troop numbers in Germany, noting that some may be relocated elsewhere in Europe. “As of today, we are only aware of a decrease in US personnel in Germany, who will likely be stationed in another European location,” he said, stressing that NATO’s eastern flank remains secure. “Partners are present, and there is no additional threat—everyone is working to ensure the safety of Eastern Europe and NATO’s eastern border.”

The US Army had previously announced in March that a 4,000-strong brigade would replace existing forces under standard rotation. According to The Wall Street Journal, some equipment and personnel were already en route to Europe when the decision was made, surprising some military officials.