As Europe worries about Russian expansionism following the invasion of Ukraine, NATO forces from eight countries are training in Lithuania — not on the Russian border. The wargame, Exercise Freedom Shield, underlined NATO’s determination to strengthen its eastern flank amid ongoing concerns about Russia’s military posture.Conducted over six weeks, the drills involve nearly 2,900 troops from eight NATO members, with Germany’s newly established Panzerbrigade 45 playing a central role alongside the Lithuanian Armed Forces. The exercise features Leopard tanks, Puma infantry fighting vehicles, helicopters and fighter jets, simulating the defence of Lithuania against a potential Russian attack. Contingents came from Belgium, Czechia, Croatia, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway and Portugal, underscoring the mission’s multinational character.Lithuania — like fellow Baltic states Latvia and Estonia — has repeatedly said that while no specific timeline for a Russian attack can be predicted, the countries must remain prepared at all times. These small states fear Russia’s efforts to rebuild its armed forces and say the outcome of the war in Ukraine will shape the pace of that reconstitution. Lithuania is responding with higher defence spending, improved interoperability and investments in weaponry to ensure readiness.Germany’s commitment to Lithuania is also growing. The so-called “Lithuania Brigade” is expected to reach about 5,000 personnel by 2027, including permanent deployments of Tank Battalion 203 from North Rhine-Westphalia and Panzergrenadier Battalion 122 from Bavaria. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said during a visit to Pabradė that the deployment remains on schedule, with full operational capability targeted by the end of 2027, German outlet DW reported.Lithuania’s defence posture is further strengthened by European Union support. On 24 June 2026, the country received its first payment of €956.3 million under the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) financing instrument, part of a €150 billion initiative to boost joint procurement of ammunition, missiles, air-defence and ground combat systems. SAFE is a key element of the European Commission’s ReArm Europe/Readiness 2030 plan, which aims to unlock over €800 billion in defence investment across the EU.