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Poland backs Lithuania training plans but rules out own border range

21.03.2026 11:12
Poland supports plans to expand allied training infrastructure, including in Lithuania, but does not intend to build a new military range near its own border, the defence ministry said, clarifying its position after a dispute in Vilnius.
Photo:
Photo:Ansgar Haase/dpa

In a statement, the ministry said the Polish armed forces already have sufficient training grounds and have no current plans to construct a facility along the Lithuanian border.

At the same time, Warsaw signalled willingness to support Lithuania’s project. It said a standing declaration remains in place to assist Lithuanian forces with infrastructure expertise and that Polish troops would take part in exercises there if invited.

The comments shift the focus from earlier suggestions by Deputy Defence Minister Paweł Bejda, which had triggered political tensions in Lithuania.

Lithuanian Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas said the project for a training ground near the Polish border remains under development, while domestic political disagreements have intensified, with opposition figures accusing the government of mishandling the issue.

Lithuania’s government this week backed the creation of a new training area near the Polish frontier as part of broader efforts to strengthen regional defence cooperation.

(tf)

Source: PAP