On the occasion of Lithuania's independence day on February 16, US President Donald Trump sent his congratulations, acknowledging Lithuania's leadership in NATO defense spending. This year, Lithuania plans to allocate 5.38% of its GDP to defense, highlighting its commitment to the alliance. Trump expressed gratitude for Lithuania's generous offer to cover the costs of rotating US troops stationed there and appreciated Lithuania's cooperation with the US regarding issues related to Belarus and China.

In addition to Trump, Lithuania's President Gitanas Nausėda received well-wishes from a range of international figures including Pope Leo XIV, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Polish President Karol Nawrocki, among others. These messages reflect a strong international support network for Lithuania, particularly in the context of regional security and collaborative efforts within NATO. The greetings emphasized the importance of Lithuania's role in ensuring NATO's collective defense.

The congratulatory messages from various leaders underscore the significance of Lithuania's strategic position in Europe and its active partnership with Western allies. The focus on defense spending and military cooperation signals ongoing commitment to regional stability, especially in light of recent geopolitical tensions involving neighboring countries.