EUR 200M for Ukraine defense: Lithuania supports three-year aid plan

This is reported by Ukrinform with reference to the press service of the Lithuanian President.

The long-term plan to back Ukraine, presented at the VGT by Lithuanian Defense Minister Arvydas Anushauskas, envisages not only the supply of military equipment that Lithuania already has, but also the handover of new and purchased pieces; as well as the training and rehabilitation of the Ukrainian soldiers in Lithuania.

In addition, the connection of the Lithuanian power system to the European network was discussed; the concept of armed defense of the state; and issues of structuring and development of the national defense system.

VGT heard from Energy Minister Dainius Kravis and CEO Litgrid, Lithuanian electricity transmission system operator, Rokas Masiulis. The two reported on the preparation of the power system for synchronization with the networks of continental Europe. VGT offered that the government agree in writing with the governments of Latvia and Estonia on the joint withdrawal of the three Baltic countries from the agreement on the Russian-controlled BRELL energy system (Belarus, Russia, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania). The deadline for synchronization with continental European grids was set for February 2025.

The Lithuanian State Defense Council approved changes in the concept of armed defense, related to the new generation regional defense plans approved at the NATO summit in Vilnius. Now it’s collective, not independent, defense that is planned from the first stages of possible crises.

VGT considered the need for new military training grounds. It was determined that Lithuania required another military training ground where a brigade-sized military unit could maneuver.

On the website of the Ministry of Defense, it is clarified that in the plan to support the Ukrainian army for the years 2024-2026, a budget of about EUR 200 million is provided. The main areas of support include the purchase of lethal and non-lethal capabilities, military training, financial contributions to support facilities, repair of military equipment in Lithuania, and personnel training.

The VGT also approved the update to the Armed Defense Concept (VGGK), which was determined by the security situation in the region, updated NATO regional defense plans, and the need to move to the next level of army quality. The updated concept focuses on and prioritizes existing military threats and national security interests.

Decisions regarding capacity development necessary for the creation of a new national unit were also discussed.

As reported, at the end of June, Lithuania sent Ukraine two NASAMS systems, 10 M113 armored personnel carriers, and ammunition, after which the total volume of Lithuanian military aid to Ukraine reached EUR 0.5 billion.