NATO has turned the city of Vilnius into a fortress surrounded by advanced weapons to protect U.S. President Joe Biden and other alliance leaders during a summit taking place this week, just 32 kilometers from the barbed-wire border separating Lithuania from Russia's ally Belarus. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda stated, "Leaving our airspace unprotected with the arrival of Biden and leaders from 40 countries would be much more than just an irresponsible act." He added, "We are thinking about what will happen after the summit concludes, and we will work with allies to form a rotational force to provide permanent air protection."
Sixteen member countries have sent nearly a thousand soldiers to secure the summit, scheduled for July 11 and 12, which will be held only 151 kilometers from Russia itself. Several member countries have also provided advanced air defense systems not possessed by the Baltic states. Germany has deployed 12 Patriot missile launchers, which are used to intercept ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, or fighter jets. Spain has deployed the NASAMS missile air defense system, while France is sending self-propelled Caesar howitzers. France, Finland, and Denmark have also transported military aircraft to Lithuania, and the United Kingdom and France have provided defenses against drone attacks. Additionally, Poland and Germany have sent special operations forces enhanced with helicopters. Other countries have supplied equipment to deal with potential chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear attacks.
