Lithuanian Parliament Advances Vote to Lift Nuclear Weapons Ban
The Lithuanian parliament passed a first reading to remove a constitutional ban on nuclear weapons to strengthen NATO deterrence against Russia.
The Parliament of Lithuania passed the first reading of a constitutional amendment on Tuesday to lift a decades-old ban on weapons of mass destruction. In a vote of 106 in favor, 18 against, and six abstaining, lawmakers moved to remove legal obstacles that currently prevent the stationing of allied nuclear weapons on Lithuanian territory.
Supporters of the measure argue the change is necessary to ensure Lithuania can fully participate in NATO nuclear deterrence plans and remove legal distinctions between Lithuania and other EU and NATO members. While officials stated there are currently no immediate plans to deploy nuclear weapons, they framed the move as a direct response to Russian aggression and the ongoing war in Ukraine. A final vote is scheduled for January 12, 2027, and will require at least 94 votes to pass.
Opposition from the Nemunas Dawn party has emerged, with some members calling for a public referendum on the issue. Meanwhile, the Kremlin issued warnings that the amendment, combined with proposals from U.S. President Donald Trump to establish an American military base in the Baltic region, constitutes a significant escalation. Russian officials stated that such developments undermine European stability and would force Russia to take necessary measures to guarantee its own national security.
