In the letter, President Trump has expressed gratitude to Lithuania for its readiness to contribute to ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. This decision was adopted on 11 May this year by the State Defence Council (VGT), chaired by President Gitanas Nausėda.
In his letter, US President Donald Trump emphasizes his gratitude for Lithuania’s support for the United States and for agreement with regard to establishing a Maritime Freedom Construct. The US leader stresses that the Strait of Hormuz must be fully opened, with freedom of navigation restored.
According to President Trump, Lithuania’s offer to contribute troops to this initiative means a great deal to him. The letter also states that Lithuania has always been a reliable friend and partner to the United States, and that Lithuania’s willingness to provide access and permanent basing to American troops only reaffirms the unbreakable bonds between the two nations, which has persisted for more than a century.
The US leader emphasised he looks forward to meeting with the president of Lithuania soon and expressed his willingness to work together to build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous future for the people of both nations.
The State Defence Council approved the deployment of Lithuanian military forces (up to 40 military personnel and civilian employees of the national defence system) to participate alongside allies in international maritime security operations ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and proposed that the Government urgently initiate the necessary amendments to the Seimas’ mandate on international operations.
It was also announced that Lithuania, taking into account US needs, is also prepared to provide logistical support and grant access to its military infrastructure.