The soldiers who returned from the mission in Iraq were thanked for fulfilling their international obligations

“We defend our country not only in Lithuania. Compliance with international obligations is an integral part of collective defence. By contributing to NATO missions outside the Alliance, we can expect the same support from our allies in the event of a threat.

I would also like to thank your families and relatives for their understanding, patience and care. Far from being on duty, the support of loved ones is especially important for a soldier,” said gen. V. Rupšys.

Lithuanian soldiers as part of the Danish mobile security company carried out a non-combat operation, the purpose of which is to strengthen the Iraqi army and security institutions, enable them to fight terrorism, prevent the activities of the Islamic State group in Iraq and stabilize the country.

A detachment of Lithuanian soldiers protected NATO personnel training Iraqi soldiers against individual attacks by “Islamic State” detachments. Medals for exemplary service, self-sacrifice and personal contribution to the tasks of international operations were presented to soldiers of the security detachment who returned from the mission.

KMHB photo/Panevėžys Laisvės square welcomed the return of the security unit of the Lithuanian Armed Forces

“Lithuania’s military contribution to Iraq is a contribution to the fight against terrorism. We are committed to strengthening Iraqi forces and ensuring that the Islamic State cannot return. By participating in international operations, we aim to contribute to strengthening security and stability in the region,” said Minister of National Defense Arvydas Anušauskas.

29 Lithuanian soldiers who left for special training for the 7th force protection operation in Iraq started their preparation in 2023. in Lithuania in March, and later participated in exercises in the Kingdom of Denmark for 6 weeks, during which the readiness of Lithuanian and Danish soldiers to participate in this mission was assessed.

Lithuania started participating in this NATO military training operation in Iraq in 2019. at the beginning In the international mission in Baghdad, the unit served as part of the international battalion, together with soldiers from Denmark, Poland and the Netherlands. Denmark has stopped participating in this mission, so Lithuania is not planning new troop rotations yet.