During US discussions about the possibility of deploying nuclear weapons in other NATO countries in Europe, Lithuanian Defense Minister Roberts Kaunas stated that this could only happen in Lithuania during a crisis or war, “postimees.ee” writes.
“Like any country, Lithuania also has a duty to defend its independence and security during a crisis. And during a crisis or even a war, we should probably use all the available options offered by the nuclear arsenals of NATO, the United States or France,” the minister told journalists in the Lithuanian Seimas on Thursday.
“In peacetime, nobody talks about deploying weapons of mass destruction in Lithuania,” he emphasized.
According to the information provided, citing three sources familiar with the discussions, the Financial Times reported that US officials have mentioned the possibility of deploying nuclear weapons in countries other than the existing six countries where they are currently based. nuclear weapons capable bombers.
The move would see more countries adopt so-called dual-purpose aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons. However, the publication emphasizes that this is not an issue that would be realistic in the near future.
On the other hand, Lithuanian President Gitans Nausėdas vetoed the law on the state sea port of Klaipėda in May, which would allow ships carrying nuclear weapons to enter the territory of Lithuania, if it did not conflict with the national security interests.
The Lithuanian head of state cited the possible constitutional violation as the reason for this decision, but did not rule out the possibility of amending it – it still needs to be discussed. He also stated that the partners have no objections to the situation.
“Our partners do not refer to the laws of our country or the Constitution. This is a matter of our self-determination and our decision,” said the minister.
The Constitution of Lithuania stipulates that weapons of mass destruction and foreign military bases are prohibited on the territory of Lithuania.
