Vilnius, January 5, 2026 – German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called on Monday for Europe to bolster its independent defense capabilities in response to ongoing "Russian hybrid attacks," emphasizing the need for stronger continental cohesion to counter escalating threats from Moscow. Speaking ahead of bilateral talks in Vilnius, Wadephul highlighted shared priorities with Lithuania, including unwavering support for Ukraine and enhanced NATO cooperation on the alliance's eastern flank.
“We must counter the threat from Russia with strong European cohesion,” Wadephul stated, adding that the key to deterrence lies in Europe's ability “to defend ourselves and our freedom more independently.” He underscored that both Berlin and Vilnius agree decisive measures are essential to prevent further Russian escalation.
During his one-day visit, Wadephul met with Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė and Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys to discuss deepening bilateral ties, support for Ukraine amid what he described as a "potentially decisive phase" in efforts to end Russia's war of aggression, and countermeasures against hybrid threats such as cyberattacks, disinformation, and infrastructure sabotage.
Wadephul praised joint initiatives, noting that Germany is collaborating with Lithuania and other NATO and EU partners on increased patrols in the Baltic Sea, heightened vigilance, and investments in resilient infrastructure. “Berlin and Vilnius are guided by the shared conviction that only a strong Ukraine and a defensible Europe can secure lasting peace on the continent,” he said.
A highlight of the visit was Wadephul's trip to the German-led 45th Armoured Brigade (Panzerbrigade 45), also known as the "Lithuania Brigade," stationed in Nemenčinė near Vilnius. This unit, Germany's first permanent overseas deployment of a brigade-sized combat force since World War II, symbolizes Berlin's commitment to NATO's eastern deterrence posture.
“The fact that Germany is stationing such a force abroad for the first time is a sign of the seriousness of the situation, but also of the seriousness of our determination to stand by our friends and allies,” Wadephul remarked during his inspection. He described the deployment as a "clear signal" of NATO unity and resolve toward Russia, defending not only Lithuania's security but that of Europe and Germany itself.
The brigade was formally commissioned in April 2025 and is on track to reach full operational capability by 2027, with approximately 4,800 soldiers and 200 civilian employees. It includes advanced assets like Leopard 2 tanks and Puma infantry fighting vehicles, integrating multinational elements such as the existing NATO enhanced Forward Presence battlegroup in Rukla.
Wadephul's comments align with broader German warnings about Russian intentions. Intelligence assessments cited by Berlin suggest Moscow is maintaining the option for potential conflict with NATO by 2029, amid a pattern of hybrid operations including airspace violations, drone incursions, and sabotage attempts across Europe.
The visit also included a joint stop at Vilnius' Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights, underscoring historical ties and shared experiences under Soviet occupation. Discussions touched on regional security, with Lithuania—a frontline NATO member bordering Russia's Kaliningrad exclave and ally Belarus—prioritizing defense spending increases and infrastructure hardening.
Lithuania has emerged as a vocal advocate for robust allied presence, hosting rotating NATO troops since 2017 and now the permanent German brigade. Prime Minister Ruginienė's government has pledged to raise defense expenditure significantly, reflecting concerns over Russian revanchism and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Wadephul's trip marks his first official visit of 2026 and comes against a backdrop of heightened transatlantic and European security debates, including negotiations on Ukraine and responses to global crises. It reinforces Germany's role under Chancellor Friedrich Merz's administration in leading European defense efforts, including pushes for higher NATO spending and autonomous capabilities.
Analysts view the brigade deployment as a template for future NATO forward defense, potentially influencing similar commitments in other Baltic states or Poland. The visit underscores enduring German-Lithuanian partnership in an era of renewed great-power competition.
