German defence minister to visit Lithuania for NATO exercises

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius will visit Lithuania early next week to observe joint military exercises alongside his Lithuanian counterpart, the Lithuanian Ministry of Defence announced.

On Monday, Pistorius and Lithuanian Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas will visit the General Silvestras Žukauskas Training Area in Pabradė to monitor the ongoing Freedom Shield 26-I drills, part of the first exercises conducted by Germany’s 45th Armoured Brigade Lithuania. The ministers will hold a bilateral meeting, discuss infrastructure development, and address the media.

The exercises, running through May and June, involve around 2,900 troops and 800 vehicles from eight NATO member states. Forces are training with drones, mortars, artillery, combat helicopters, tanks, and infantry fighting vehicles.

According to the ministry, these drills mark a new phase in the brigade’s readiness, demonstrating its combat capabilities twice a year in Lithuania to enhance deterrence and security on NATO’s eastern flank. Berlin has committed to deploying the brigade in Lithuania by the end of 2027.

Reporting by BNS.