Mindaugas Sinkevičius, Lithuania’s new prime minister, told Chancellor Friedrich Merz that preparing military and civilian infrastructure for a planned Bundeswehr brigade is a top priority. The brigade—pledged by Germany in response to Russia—aims to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank and deter aggression. It is expected to be operational by 2027, with up to 5,000 troops and a main base under construction in Rūdninkai.
Lithuania’s New PM Makes Bundeswehr Brigade Infrastructure a Top Priority
File Photo - A Bundeswehr soldier wearing the Lithuania Brigade patch stands at the formation roll call of the 45th Armored Brigade in the Lithuanian capital. (is associated with: «Lithuania's new PM calls Bundeswehr brigade a 'top priority'») Michael Kappeler/dpa
Lithuania’s newly appointed prime minister, Mindaugas Sinkevičius, told German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in a phone call that preparing both military and civilian infrastructure for the planned Bundeswehr brigade will be a central priority for his government.
"I can assure you that both the government and I personally attach the highest priority to this issue," Sinkevičius said, according to a statement from the State Chancellery in Vilnius.
Strengthening Lithuania–Germany Ties
Sinkevičius said he intends to deepen bilateral relations with Germany, describing the partnership as "unique in Europe." He has previously indicated that his first official foreign visit would be to Germany, underscoring the diplomatic importance he places on the relationship.
Brigade Deployment and Regional Security
The German government pledged the deployment of a Bundeswehr brigade to Lithuania in response to what it describes as a growing threat from Russia. The brigade is viewed as a key element in reinforcing NATO's eastern flank—intended to deter aggression against Alliance territory and to enhance collective defence.
The unit is scheduled to be fully operational by 2027, with plans for a permanent contingent of up to 5,000 troops. The main base will be a barracks complex and a military training area currently under construction in Rūdninkai.
New Government Takes Office
Sinkevičius and his cabinet were sworn in on Tuesday. The 42-year-old Social Democrat is the third prime minister from his party since the general election in autumn 2024. His early emphasis on the brigade infrastructure signals a rapid move to prioritise defence cooperation with NATO partners.
Why it matters: Upgrading infrastructure to host a multinational brigade will require close coordination between Lithuania and Germany and represents a tangible step in strengthening NATO deterrence along the alliance’s eastern flank.
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