Lithuania’s parliament has taken a major step toward permitting nuclear weapons on its territory by passing a key constitutional amendment in an initial vote. The proposed change to Article 137 cleared the assembly with 106 votes in favor, aiming to bolster the nation’s security posture alongside its Western allies. Backing the measure, opposition leader Laurynas Kasciunas emphasized that “nuclear deterrence is the crowning glory of deterrence” and crucial for national defense. Parliament Speaker Juozas Olekas added that removing the ban will “strengthen the country’s resilience” while eliminating legal discrepancies with NATO partners. A second and final vote requiring a supermajority is set for January 12th to officially enact the amendment.