Faction leaders from the Union (CDU) and the SPD, Thorsten Frei and Matthias Miersch respectively, reaffirmed their support for the troops stationed in Lithuania during a joint visit to Panzer Brigade 45 on Monday. Frei told the Rheinische Post on Tuesday that they commit to ensuring that both men and women can carry out their service in Lithuania within a favorable environment.
Frei stated that through this permanent deployment, Germany demonstrates that its promises hold up and that the turning point-the “Zeitenwende”-is taking shape there, emphasizing, “We stand by our alliance solidarity.” He further noted that elected representatives hold a significant responsibility for the soldiers, particularly those members of the Bundeswehr stationed abroad who contribute to safeguarding peace and freedom in Europe.
Miersch shared with the Rheinische Post that the soldiers of the Lithuania Brigade protect Germany’s and Europe’s freedom through their service. He stressed that this is not a given, but rather a daily sign of deep solidarity with their fellow citizens in Germany and their European partners. Miersch concluded by saying that Bundeswehr personnel in Lithuania are perceived as “not only soldiers, but as welcome guests.”
