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At the recent Reuters NEXT conference, Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene voiced strong concerns about European defense spending. She criticized the heavy reliance on U.S. military funding and called for European nations to increase their defense budgets. Sakaliene argued that this is necessary to effectively address growing threats from Russia and China. She emphasized that delays in military support for Ukraine highlight the need for a more decisive European response. Moreover, Lithuania plans to sustain high defense spending, which could rise significantly in the near future, reflecting the nation's commitment to countering regional threats.
Key Takeaways
- Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene emphasizes the need for European nations to increase defense spending to effectively counter global threats from Russia and China.
- Sakaliene criticizes the U.S. disproportionate share in defense spending and advocates for Europe to take greater responsibility in military support, especially aiding Ukraine.
- Lithuania is committed to a defense spending target of
3.5% of GDP, with potential plans to increase it to 5% due to rising security concerns in the region.
The Case for Increased European Defense Spending
Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene criticized the unequal burden of defense spending in the West, calling it 'unfair.' During the Reuters NEXT conference, she urged European nations to increase their defense budgets significantly. Sakaliene stated that greater investment in defense is crucial for deterring threats from Russia and China, highlighting a need for unity among European countries. She noted that Western indecisiveness has slowed military support for Ukraine, particularly in munitions procurement. Sakaliene expressed support for President Trump's nominee for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, praising his strong stance on defense issues despite his controversial reputation. Lithuania plans to keep its defense spending at
3.5% of its GDP, with potential increases to 5%, in response to concerns over Russian military ambitions. She emphasized that U.S. engagement in Europe remains vital for countering threats from China, warning that the perception of a pause in the war in Ukraine might embolden Russia for further aggression. Sakaliene's statements stress the urgency for European nations to enhance their defense commitments amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Lithuania's Commitment to National and Regional Security
Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene voiced strong concerns about the current state of defense spending among Western nations at the Reuters NEXT conference. She labeled the situation as 'unfair,' asserting that European countries must contribute more to their own defense. Sakaliene pointed out that a collective increase in defense budgets is crucial for shielding Europe from potential threats posed by Russia and China. She noted that hesitance among Western allies has delayed critical military assistance to Ukraine, specifically in the area of munitions. Maintaining a high defense budget, Lithuania aims to spend
3.5% of its GDP on defense, with aspirations to reach 5% due to the rising dangers from the east. Sakaliene urged that U.S. involvement in European defense remain strong, cautioning that any perceived lull in the Ukraine conflict could inadvertently strengthen Russia for future military initiatives. Her comments reflect a pressing need for enhanced European solidarity and investment in defense during a time of increasing global tensions.
