Lithuania Advances Nuclear Ban Repeal Amid Kremlin Threats and U.S. Base Talks

Key points

• The Lithuanian Seimas passed the first of two required votes to repeal Article 137 of the constitution, which currently prohibits weapons of mass destruction and foreign military bases.
• A second vote is scheduled for January 12, 2026, requiring at least 94 of 141 parliamentary members to pass.
• Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated the move and potential U.S. base deployment would mark a 'significant escalation' and force Russia to take necessary security measures.
• U.S. President Donald Trump said he would consider Lithuania’s request for a permanent U.S. military base, calling the Lithuanians 'friends.'
• Lithuanian officials argue the current ban places them at a disadvantage compared to neighbors like Latvia, Estonia, and Poland, which lack similar restrictions.

Background

This development follows Finland’s removal of its own nuclear weapons ban earlier in 2026 and its participation in a French-led 'forward deterrence' initiative. Lithuania has been a staunch ally of Ukraine during the ongoing conflict with Russia. Previous tensions included a deleted RIA Novosti column threatening Lithuania with a nuclear strike in September 2026.

How outlets are covering it

Euronews emphasizes the legal alignment of Lithuania with other NATO allies and the strategic necessity of full participation in deterrence measures. CNBC highlights the diplomatic dimension, focusing on Trump’s willingness to consider a permanent U.S. base and the Kremlin’s explicit warning of escalation. Ukrainian Pravda focuses on the Kremlin’s threat to take 'necessary measures' and the broader context of Russian nuclear rhetoric, including previous warnings that Lithuania would be in the crosshairs of Russian weapons.

Why it matters

The potential removal of Lithuania’s nuclear ban and the establishment of a permanent U.S. base could significantly alter the security landscape in the Baltic region, potentially triggering a direct confrontation with Russia and reshaping NATO’s deterrence strategy in Europe.

What to watch

The final constitutional vote is expected on January 12, 2026. Negotiations between Lithuania and the U.S. regarding the permanent base are ongoing. Russia may implement further military or diplomatic measures in response to the perceived escalation.