© Cédric Ferry / RTL
Defence Minister Yuriko Backes stressed Luxembourg's commitment to NATO's collective defence efforts during her visit to the Rukla military base in Lithuania on Wednesday.
Luxembourg's Minister of Defence, Yuriko Backes, visited the NATO military base in Rukla, Lithuania, on Wednesday to meet with Luxembourg soldiers stationed there. During her visit, Backes emphasised the importance of collective defence, noting that Luxembourg is "in a war situation not far from home."
While the conflict may feel distant to many, Backes underscored the role of Luxembourg's soldiers in safeguarding national security. "Our soldiers are engaged in the defence of our country, in the broadest sense, as part of a collective defence within NATO," she said. The minister highlighted the importance of showing readiness, stating, "We will defend ourselves if necessary."
The NATO base at Rukla houses approximately 1,290 military personnel, including seven from Luxembourg. General Steve Thull, head of the Luxembourg Army, explained that the unit's primary purpose is to enhance readiness for emergencies and strengthen NATO's deterrence capabilities. "Deterrence is essential to guarantee peace," Thull said, adding that the base's mission aims to reassure Baltic residents and prevent potential aggression against Lithuania and the wider region.
Regarding NATO's overall preparedness, General Thull highlighted the alliance's strengthened capacity, bolstered by its new strategic concept. NATO can now deploy 300,000 troops at short notice.
