Lithuania joins NATO

Lithuania officially joined NATO on March 29, 2004, marking a key milestone in its post-Soviet foreign policy and defense strategy. The process of joining NATO was motivated by Lithuania’s desire to strengthen its security, especially given historical tensions with Russia, and to solidify its place in the Western political and defense structures.

EU member states in 2004 New EU member states admitted in 2004. © Júlio Reis

The road to NATO membership began soon after Lithuania regained independence in 1991. Lithuania worked towards meeting the requirements for NATO by restructuring its military, modernizing defense infrastructure, and increasing civilian oversight of military operations. Additionally, Lithuania actively participated in NATO's Partnership for Peace program in the 1990s, cooperating with NATO forces on training and regional security exercises.

Lithuania’s inclusion in NATO was part of a broader expansion that included six other former Soviet-aligned countries, reinforcing security in the Baltic region. This accession came amid Russia's objections to NATO’s eastward expansion, reflecting ongoing geopolitical tensions. However, NATO membership provided Lithuania with significant military protection under the alliance’s collective defense clause (Article 5), reassuring its sovereignty and security.

After joining, Lithuania increased its defense spending and contributed to NATO missions, including operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, further aligning with the alliance’s collective goals. NATO membership also enhanced Lithuania's role in regional security cooperation within the Baltic Sea region.

Following Lithuania’s accession to the European Union in 2004, the country experienced rapid economic growth. However, this momentum was abruptly halted by the global financial crisis, leading to a sharp 15% contraction in GDP in 2009.