Lithuania's Defense Minister urges NATO allies to share more responsibility in defense spending during a meeting in Brussels, where Lithuania remains a leader with the highest GDP defense spending within NATO.
Lithuania's Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas emphasized the country's leading position in defense spending at a NATO Ministerial meeting in Brussels, where Lithuania allocates 5.38% of its GDP to defense, the highest in NATO. This commitment is seen as a call for collective accountability among NATO allies, particularly in the context of heightened security threats from Russia, which Kaunas asserts recognizes only the 'language of strength'.
During the meeting, defense ministers also signed a letter of intent regarding the NATO initiative 'NATO Task Force X', aimed at enhancing deep-strike capabilities and drone technologies. The initiative seeks to develop maritime drone capabilities that will play a crucial role in protecting critical infrastructure through reconnaissance, tracking, and maritime awareness, further integrating these assets into NATO's defense strategy.
The involvement of the Lithuanian Navy in this initiative represents a significant opportunity for skill enhancement and learning from NATO partners. As Lithuania advocates for increased contributions from all allies, it underscores the importance of unity and shared responsibility in the collective security efforts of NATO amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly related to Russia's actions in the region.
