POWDER KEG BALTICS: Lithuania Seeks Long-Term US Military Presence in the Russia-Bordering Country Lithuania’s new coalition government, formed by the Social Democrats, Democrats for Lithuania, and Farmers and Christian Families Union, has prioritized securing a long-term and uninterrupted presence of U.S. military units in the country. This move comes after a coalition reshuffle and aims to enhance deterrence against Russia, with defense spending set to remain high. The coalition agreement also commits to strengthening air defenses and supporting Ukraine’s integration into the EU and NATO.

• Lithuania’s new coalition government, led by Social Democratic leader Mindaugas Sinkevicius, aims for a long-term US military presence.
• The coalition agreement emphasizes US military presence as a top deterrence priority.
• Lithuania plans to strengthen air defenses and maintain defense spending at least 5% of GDP.
• The government will support Ukraine’s integration into the EU and NATO.