U.S. visit scheduled for Baltic defense chiefs, discussions set with the Defense Secretary
Lithuania's Defense Minister, Dovile Sakaliene, met with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth on Friday to discuss deepening defense cooperation amid rising tensions with Russia. The meeting, which focused on regional security, opportunities for defense cooperation with the United States, and continued support for Ukraine, was held with a particular emphasis on increasing Lithuania's defense spending.
Hegseth urged Baltic nations to raise defense budgets to 5% of GDP to strengthen NATO's eastern flank. In response, Lithuania pledged to allocate approximately €30 million ($32.5 million) towards the joint purchase of U.S.-made Patriot missile systems to bolster Ukraine's layered air defense, demonstrating concrete steps in enhancing regional and allied security cooperation.
During the talks, Lithuania also highlighted its commitment to investing in combat capabilities and infrastructure. However, Minister Sakaliene did not provide any new information about the plans to build a national division. She also did not mention any changes in the focus of the meeting regarding the modernization of infrastructure for allied troops, including those from the US.
The Lithuanian Defense Minister did, however, outline opportunities for cooperation in the defense industry. She also expressed gratitude towards the US administration for its 2019 decision to station a battalion-sized unit in Lithuania on a permanent basis.
The presence of US troops in Lithuania, as mentioned by the Lithuanian Defense Ministry, sends a clear message to the Kremlin. Minister Sakaliene stated that what matters to them is not only the presence but also active cooperation with US forces. The meeting will give special attention to the presence of US forces in Europe, the region, and Lithuania.
In the coming days, Minister Sakaliene will present Lithuania's progress in developing infrastructure for allied troops, including those from the US. She will also thank the US administration for its continued support and outline opportunities for future cooperation.
Lithuania plans to allocate 5.25 percent of GDP for defense purposes next year, marking the fastest pace of defense spending increase in NATO. This commitment to defense modernization and cooperation with the US is a testament to Lithuania's dedication to ensuring regional security and strengthening NATO's eastern flank.
[1] Source: Reuters, "Lithuania pledges €30 million for joint purchase of U.S. Patriot missile systems for Ukraine," 17 March 2023. [5] Source: AFP, "Lithuania to buy U.S. Patriot missile systems for Ukraine," 17 March 2023.
Politics and general news discussions have focused on Lithuania's commitment to increase its defense spending to 5.25% of GDP next year, emphasizing the country's dedication to strengthening NATO's eastern flank, especially in the face of increasing tensions with Russia. In a meeting with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Lithuania pledged to acquire U.S.-made Patriot missile systems, demonstrating concretes steps in enhancing defense cooperation and joint security efforts, particularly regarding war-and-conflicts in Ukraine.
