Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys said Tuesday that Lithuania’s planned contribution to US-led operations in the Strait of Hormuz would represent a meaningful operational commitment rather than a symbolic gesture.
“Considering our capabilities, this is not symbolism, it is not just a flag,” Budrys told reporters in Vilnius. “It includes staff officers, planning officers, and ultimately, we have expertise and specific capabilities in demining, so we could certainly contribute.”
Lithuania’s State Defence Council on Monday agreed to send up to 40 military personnel and civilian defence staff to participate in international operations aimed at opening the strategically important waterway for international navigation.
The strait was closed by Iran in response to US and Israeli attacks.
Budrys said the move would also send a political signal about Lithuania’s willingness to take responsibility within the broader international security framework.
The deployment still requires approval from the Lithuanian parliament.
President Gitanas Nausėda has said the final scale of Lithuania’s participation will depend on the needs identified by the United States.
Chief of Defence Raimundas Vaikšnoras said Lithuania could contribute demining specialists, staff officers and logistical support to the mission.
Following the State Defence Council meeting, Lithuanian officials also announced that the country is prepared to provide logistical assistance to the United States and allow access to its military infrastructure if needed.
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