Lithuanian Parliament Advances Measure To Reverse Nuclear Weapons Ban

What happened: Lithuania's parliament voted 106-18 to advance a constitutional amendment reversing the ban on nuclear weapons on its territory. A second vote is required after a three-month waiting period, with a final vote expected on January 12. Key numbers: Vote was 106-18. At least 94 of the Seimas' 141 members must back it in both votes. Why it matters: The change would let Lithuania's armed forces take part in NATO deterrence planning and exercises. Lawmakers cited Latvia, Estonia and Poland as having no such restrictions. The content describes the effort as provocative to Russia.

Lithuania's parliament voted 106-18 to advance a constitutional amendment reversing the ban on nuclear weapons on its territory. A second vote is required after a three-month waiting period, with a final vote expected on January 12.

The change would let Lithuania's armed forces take part in NATO deterrence planning and exercises. Lawmakers cited Latvia, Estonia and Poland as having no such restrictions. The content describes the effort as provocative to Russia.