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Lithuania builds new military camp near Belarus for Bundeswehr and NATO troops
๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Germany /Conflict & Security

Lithuania builds new military camp near Belarus for Bundeswehr and NATO troops

From Die Zeit · () German

Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement New plan
  • Lithuania is building a new military camp near the Belarusian border to accommodate German and other NATO troops, with plans for a full brigade.
  • The facility, costing around 40 million euros, will cover seven hectares and is expected to be completed by the first half of 2028.
  • The investment aims to provide high-quality training conditions and adequate living standards for NATO forces stationed or exercising in Lithuania.

Lithuania is significantly enhancing its military infrastructure by constructing a new camp on the Rudninkai training ground, located close to the border with Belarus. This strategic investment is designed to host a full German brigade and other NATO forces, underscoring the Baltic nation's commitment to collective defense within the alliance.

The project involves an investment of approximately 40 million euros to develop a seven-hectare site. The new camp will feature residential and supply buildings, along with essential technical infrastructure and transportation links. Construction is slated for completion in the first half of 2028, ensuring readiness for incoming troops.

Lithuanian officials emphasize that the initiative aims to create optimal training and living conditions for NATO soldiers. "We are strategically and comprehensively investing in military infrastructure to ensure that both the German brigade and soldiers from other NATO allies can train in Lithuania with high quality and find adequate living conditions," stated Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas.

The German army is already establishing Panzerbrigade 45 in Lithuania, with Rudninkai designated as its primary location. This expansion reflects a broader NATO strategy to bolster its presence and capabilities in Eastern Europe in response to evolving security challenges.

We are strategically and comprehensively investing in military infrastructure to ensure that both the German brigade and soldiers from other NATO allies can train in Lithuania with high quality and find adequate living conditions.

โ€” Robertas KaunasLithuania's Defense Minister on the strategic importance of the new military camp.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.