“I could criticise the Government for failing to keep US troops in Lithuania, but decisions on troop deployments are ultimately made by the Pentagon,” the chairman of the Homeland Union-Lithanian Christian Democrats (TS-LKD) told Žinių radijas.
He said Lithuania should have “a clearer picture” within two to three weeks of how US forces would continue contributing to deterrence in the Baltic State.
“Based on the information I have, it is very likely that US troops will remain in Lithuania through a new rotation, although possibly on a smaller scale. We should have a clearer picture of their future presence and role in June,” he added.
Meanwhile, Minister of National Defence Robertas Kaunas on Friday declined to speculate on the future rotation of US troops in Lithuania, saying the issue was sensitive.
“When we have precise information, we will inform the public immediately. This is an important and sensitive issue, so I do not want to speculate,” Kaunas told reporters.
Kaunas said Lithuania could host more than 1,500 US troops if needed.
All countries across Eastern Europe are currently seeking to improve conditions for US troops as much as possible, the minister added.
US heavy battalions have maintained a rotational presence in Lithuania since 2019.