Lithuania to Boost Defense Spending to 5-6% of GDP, Urges NATO Allies to Follow

Jan 17, 2025, 01:06 PM

Lithuania has committed to increasing its defense spending to between 5% and 6% of its GDP from 2026 to 2030, with a specific target of 5.5% set by the State Defence Council. This decision, announced by President Gitanas Nauseda, aims to accelerate the development of a new military division within the Lithuanian armed forces. The move comes in response to heightened security concerns and a call from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for NATO members to boost their defense budgets. Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys emphasized the need for bold decisions and leadership in challenging times, urging other NATO allies to follow Lithuania's lead and move away from passive strategies.