Russia Criticizes Potential U.S. Military Base and Nuclear Plan in Lithuania

Russia has expressed disapproval of the idea to establish a permanent U.S. military base in Lithuania. The criticism follows plans by Lithuanian lawmakers to remove a ban on nuclear weapons in the country.

Lithuania’s Prime Minister, Mindaugas Sinkevicius, stated that the nation is prepared to fund the creation of a new American base. This statement came after U.S. President Donald Trump considered the viability of such a facility.

Currently, approximately 1,000 U.S. soldiers are deployed in Lithuania on a rotating basis. This presence could increase with a new base.

Lithuanian parliament members have voted to amend the constitution. The change would allow weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear weapons from NATO states, to be stationed in Lithuania. This move is significant due to Lithuania’s proximity to Russia’s Kaliningrad region and Belarus. A final parliamentary vote is expected in mid-January.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, “A build-up of NATO forces on Russia’s doorstep cannot be perceived as anything other than a step toward escalating tensions, just as the deployment of nuclear weapons in a neighboring country cannot.”

Peskov also remarked that such actions could significantly escalate tensions. He mentioned that Moscow might need to take necessary steps to ensure its security.

This story is ongoing and will receive updates as new information becomes available.