Lithuanian Minister of Defence Dovilė Šakalienė stated that strengthening security in the Baltic region remains the country’s top priority, along with the deployment of NATO forces. She made the remarks after discussions with visiting Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles. Their meeting focused on air defense, particularly following an incident where Robles’ aircraft experienced a GPS disturbance near Kaliningrad early Wednesday.
Šakalienė emphasized that this incident, suspected to be a result of a Russian drone incursion, poses a challenge to all of NATO and highlights the necessity of enhancing the alliance’s regional air capabilities. Lithuania is currently conducting air security operations near its border with Belarus using ground-based assets and mobile fire teams. It is also rapidly acquiring additional sensors and counter-drone technology.
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Vilnius’ Defense Priorities
Lithuanian priorities discussed by Šakalienė and Robles include providing the necessary infrastructure to host allied forces and establishing an infantry division, which will be funded for tanks and other capabilities.
In 2025, Lithuania plans to allocate 5.25 percent of its gross domestic product on defense, making it one of the highest spending rates in NATO. Additionally, the country will receive approximately $7.5 billion from the European Union’s Security Action for Europe to complete the infantry division by 2030 and to enhance the Baltic Defence Line.
During the meeting, Šakalienė and Robles also stressed the importance of supporting Ukraine, reaffirming their commitment to assist Kyiv’s armed forces for as long as necessary. Šakalienė also expressed gratitude to Spain for participating in the Demining Coalition, which Lithuania co-leads with Iceland.