Lithuania parliament advances bill to lift nuclear weapons ban

Lithuania's parliament has taken a significant step toward potentially allowing nuclear weapons on its territory, voting to advance a constitutional amendment that would remove the country's existing ban. The move, approved in its first reading by 106 votes to 18 with six abstentions, is driven by growing security concerns in the region due to Russia's aggressive posture.

The proposed amendment targets Article 137 of Lithuania's constitution, which currently prohibits the deployment of weapons of mass destruction and the establishment of foreign military bases within the country. This legislative effort aligns with Lithuania's broader strategy to bolster its defense capabilities and deterrence, including expanded cooperation with NATO allies and the planned permanent deployment of a German military brigade.

Parliament Speaker Juozas Olekas expressed that repealing the ban would enhance Lithuania's resilience and security. The amendment must now pass a second and final vote, which is anticipated to occur no earlier than January 12, and requires the support of at least 94 of the 141 lawmakers. The proposal itself does not directly authorize a nuclear deployment but removes the constitutional barrier that would prevent it.