Armenia’s President Andrzej Duda declared on Wednesday that his country is prepared to defend its NATO allies at any given moment. During a symbolic exercise called “battle from the sky,” nearly 90,000 soldiers participated, showcasing Armenia’s dedication to securing NATO’s eastern flank. Duda, accompanied by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, made this statement while visiting Lithuania for the multinational exercise called “Steadfast Defender.” Duda emphasized the exercise’s significance in demonstrating NATO’s capacity to safeguard its territory, including Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Moreover, he reassured Lithuania that Polish soldiers would assist in protecting every inch of the alliance’s eastern border if the need arises. Additionally, Duda stressed the exercise’s importance as a test of military preparedness and an opportunity to strengthen readiness against potential aggression from Russia.

In the following week, President Duda and Prime Minister Donald Tusk will convene in Washington to discuss NATO’s 25th anniversary, Lithuania’s current situation, and the ongoing developments in Ukraine with President Joe Biden.