Lithuania, Latvia agree to hold joint military drills to deepen defence cooperation

Lithuania and Latvia have agreed to conduct joint military exercises at Latvia's Selonia training ground as part of efforts to strengthen defense cooperation between the two Baltic nations. The decision came during a meeting between Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda and Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs in Vilnius. Both leaders emphasized the importance of enhancing coordination between their armed forces through regular joint drills, aiming to improve readiness for collective action. The exercise plan follows discussions on regional security issues, with both presidents highlighting the need for greater interoperability and preparedness in light of ongoing tensions in the region. During the meeting, Rinkēvičs stated that Latvia is willing to provide the Selonia training ground not only for military exercises but also for broader collaboration between the two countries' defense institutions. This move reflects a growing alignment in strategic priorities between the two neighboring states, both of which are members of NATO and the EU. A key point of discussion was Lithuania's initiative to amend its constitution to allow for the potential deployment of nuclear weapons on its territory. Last week, Lithuania's parliament initiated the process to repeal Article 137, which currently prohibits the presence of weapons of mass destruction and foreign military bases within the country. Nausėda argued that most countries do not impose such an absolute ban and that the amendment would enable Lithuania to fully leverage NATO's deterrence capabilities. Rinkēvičs noted that Latvia's constitution does not contain similar restrictions, and that any decision regarding nuclear deployment would be based on national or collective NATO interests. He stressed that NATO's nuclear posture is defensive, contrasting it with Russia's more aggressive nuclear rhetoric. Rinkēvičs is currently in Lithuania on a state visit commemorating the 35th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic ties between the two Baltic nations. The visit includes a series of bilateral meetings and public engagements aimed at reinforcing political and economic ties. In addition to the military cooperation announcement, the leaders signed a joint declaration and an intergovernmental agreement focused on cross-border crime prevention and law enforcement collaboration. These agreements aim to enhance intelligence sharing and operational coordination between the two countries' security agencies. Rinkēvičs also expressed support for Lithuania's proposal to establish a European memorial in Brussels honoring victims of totalitarian regimes. The memorial, which would serve as a symbol of remembrance and reconciliation, has been supported by several European Union member states. During his stay, the Latvian president will participate in a defense and security business forum, visit cultural and historical sites in Vilnius, and tour the western port city of Klaipėda. Plans are underway for Nausėda to reciprocate with an official state visit to Latvia later this year. The timing of the visit aligns with continued efforts to bolster bilateral relations and coordinate responses to emerging security challenges. As both nations continue to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics, their increased cooperation underscores a shared commitment to stability and resilience in the region.