Lithuania seeks long-term US military presence amid Russia concerns

Lithuania's incoming coalition government, formed by the Social Democrats, Democrats “For Lithuania,” and the Farmers and Greens Union, has agreed to seek a long-term presence of U.S. military units. This move is intended as a deterrent against Russia and Belarus. The coalition deal, signed on Thursday, includes a commitment to allocate at least 5% of GDP to defense spending, prioritizing air threat detection and defense systems, and strengthening cybersecurity.

The new coalition holds 75 of the 141 seats in parliament, securing a slim majority. The agreement also outlines an aim to normalize diplomatic relations with China to the level maintained by other European Union countries. The coalition reshuffle occurred after the Social Democrats removed the populist Dawn of Nemunas party from the ruling coalition.

Mindaugas Sinkevičius is expected to lead the new government, with ministerial portfolios to be announced next week. The outgoing cabinet is led by Inga Ruginienė.