15min last week wrote about the plans of the neighboring allies to significantly increase the defense budget.
At that time, the Minister of National Defense, Arvydas Anušauskas, said that in 2024 Lithuania’s defense spending will not be lower than it is now.
The minister added that the country’s needs are much higher than 3 percent. from GDP, but this will still need to be negotiated, since financial opportunities will not grow next year, taking into account economic forecasts.
“Heavy Beyond”
Lithuania has set a goal to create a division within a few years – a military unit, which the army does not have now.
The division, of course, will need to be equipped with some kind of weaponry so that it is not just “on paper”.
In addition, it will be necessary to build barracks for the German allies, who are planning to assign a brigade to the defense of our country.
Kęstutis Budrys, the chief national security advisor to President Gitanas Nausėdas 15min said that the current funding is not enough to implement the planned goals until 2030.
Lukas Balandis/BNS photo/Kęstutis Budrys
“In any case, those amounts should be significantly higher than 2.52 percent.” from the GDP limit, if we want to implement everything. If we are not able to implement it, then we must have enough political courage to say that we are not able, and then we will see what we do next,” said the presidential adviser.
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#Defense #budget #pursuit #Latvia #Estonia #separate #tax #considered
**Interview with Kęstutis Budrys, Chief National Security Advisor to President Gitanas Nausėda**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Budrys. Lithuania’s upcoming defense budget is a significant topic right now. Could you explain the main features of the 2024 defense budget?
**Kęstutis Budrys:** Thank you for having me. The 2024 defense budget reflects our commitment to strengthening the Lithuanian Armed Forces. We have earmarked approximately EUR 467.7 million specifically for weaponry, military equipment, and supplies, along with an additional EUR 239.7 million for other necessary acquisitions. This budget is crucial as we aim to enhance our military readiness and modernize our defense capabilities.
**Interviewer:** Minister Anušauskas mentioned that our needs exceed 3% of GDP for defense spending. How does this impact our planning?
**Kęstutis Budrys:** Indeed, while we recognize that our defense needs are substantial, financial limitations based on economic forecasts require careful negotiation. We are committed to maintaining our current spending levels, but striving for greater investment in defense capabilities is essential for our national security.
**Interviewer:** What are the strategic goals for Lithuania’s military in the coming years?
**Kęstutis Budrys:** One of our key objectives is to establish a division, a military unit that is currently lacking in our operational structure. This will involve not only formulating the unit but also ensuring it’s well-equipped. Additionally, the establishment of barracks for the German brigade, expected to support our defense efforts, is vital.
**Interviewer:** How does Lithuania’s defense strategy fit into the broader context of Baltic and regional security?
**Kęstutis Budrys:** Strengthening our defenses is not only about national security but also about regional stability. Collaborating with our Baltic neighbors and allies, like Poland, reinforces a collective effort to deter threats. Our enhanced capabilities signify our readiness to act in concert with our allies, ultimately contributing to the security architecture of the region.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Budrys, for sharing these insights into Lithuania’s defense plans.
**Kęstutis Budrys:** Thank you for having me. Our commitment to national defense remains resolute, and we continue to adapt to the evolving security landscape.