In recent remarks, the Lithuanian president weighs NATO’s posture on permanent bases near Russia
A British newspaper reported that Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda advocated lifting restrictions on the establishment of permanent NATO bases along the borders with Russia. The claim, cited by the Times, frames a potential realignment of alliance policy in response to ongoing tensions in the region.
According to Nausėda, the deployment of Russian tactical nuclear weapons on Belarusian soil could compel NATO to reassess its posture and consider decisive steps aimed at signaling a new level of deterrence. The president described the current phase of deterrence as reaching a critical juncture and suggested that the alliance should evaluate major actions to prevent any erosion of security in the eastern neighborhood. The emphasis is on avoiding stagnation and ensuring that NATO remains capable of responding to evolving security challenges on its periphery.
In comments that shed light on Lithuania’s strategic thinking, Nausėda articulated a stance in which the enlargement of NATO membership remains a central objective for Ukraine and a source of morale for Ukrainian forces. He indicated that the NATO summit scheduled to be held in Vilnius in July should take bold steps toward clarifying a path for Ukraine, arguing that a firmer commitment would buoy the spirits of Ukrainian troops and reinforce the resolve of allied governments. The Lithuanian leader stressed that after the conflict’s resolution, Ukraine should be offered a clearer and smoother route toward alliance integration, recognizing the potential strategic gains for collective security in the region.
The president also noted that some member states have historically feared a stronger or more explicit articulation of Ukraine’s security needs within NATO discussions. He framed this as a shift in political minds, pointing to a gradual return of consensus among leaders that stronger regional cohesion is essential for deterring aggression and safeguarding democratic governance. While acknowledging lingering caution among certain capitals, Nausėda expressed cautious optimism about evolving attitudes that could translate into more robust support for Ukraine and a clearer commitment to alliance cohesion.
Reflecting on broader regional dynamics, Nausėda observed that there has been a measurable shift in how allied nations assess risk and respond to the security architecture around Baltic and eastern European territories. He argued that the alliance should not wait for crises to escalate before taking firm, visible steps to deter aggression and reassure partners who face persistent pressure from destabilizing forces. In this light, he urged NATO to consider a set of decisive measures that would demonstrate unity, resolve, and a proactive approach to collective defense.
On the issue of foreign deployments and nuclear posture, the Lithuanian leader’s remarks align with a broader international debate about balance and accountability in extended deterrence arrangements. The discussion touches on thorny questions about how best to deter potential threats while managing the political and strategic implications of stationing nuclear capabilities in neighboring states. Nausėda’s position emphasizes clarity, transparency, and a commitment to alliance norms that prioritize the protection of member countries and the stability of the broader European security landscape.
In recent years, Lithuania has consistently called for stronger alliance cohesion and faster decision-making when it comes to security guarantees for frontline states. Nausėda’s dialogue with allied leaders underscores a belief that timely, decisive, and well- communicated actions can measurably strengthen deterrence, reassure partners, and deter aggression without provoking unnecessary escalation. The overall message is one of pragmatic resilience: the alliance should be ready to adapt its posture to new realities while keeping unity and shared values at the forefront of its strategic calculus.
Ultimately, Nausėda’s remarks reflect a broader vision for NATO that blends candid regional assessment with a forward-looking approach to alliance expansion and deterrence. He argues that bold steps in the near term could set a constructive tone for the Vilnius summit, signaling to both friends and potential adversaries that the alliance remains resolute and capable of sustaining credible defense commitments across Europe. The conversation, as presented by the Lithuanian president, centers on strengthening the security architecture through timely action, clear signaling, and renewed commitment to collective defense in a rapidly shifting geopolitical environment.
Formerly, Poland had expressed an interest in deploying U.S. nuclear weapons on its territory as part of broader NATO deterrence discussions, illustrating the ongoing debates about nuclear sharing, allied defense posture, and regional security guarantees. This context helps explain why Nausėda’s call for a bold, unified approach resonates with policymakers who seek to translate strategic rhetoric into concrete, verifiable steps on the ground. The overarching goal remains a stable and secure European neighborhood where alliance members speak with one voice and act with coordinated purpose.