President of Lithuania and Seimas Leaders Call for Lifting Ban on Deploying Nuclear Weapons in Country

Leaders of the Lithuanian Seimas factions agreed that the constitutional ban on the deployment of nuclear weapons and foreign military bases is outdated.

In addition, President Gitanas Nausėda stated the need to repeal this provision of the country’s constitution, according to LRT.

Currently, the Lithuanian Constitution completely prohibits the presence of weapons of mass destruction and military bases of other states on its territory. However, changes in the global security landscape are forcing the country to seek new ways to protect its citizens and expand its defense capabilities.

Repealing the current provision would not mean the automatic deployment of a nuclear arsenal on the country’s territory. Amending the Constitution would merely create a legal framework for the transit, maintenance, or temporary presence of NATO allies’ military equipment.

Specifically, in case of military aggression by Russia, China, or Iran, Alliance ships or bombers carrying nuclear weapons would be able to call at the port of Klaipėda or land in Lithuania to refuel.

Previously, Lithuania has begun negotiations with the United States regarding the potential deployment of American nuclear weapons on its territory.

At the same time, Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas noted that the deployment of any weapons of mass destruction could only take place in the event of a crisis or war.