“We should have no illusions, Russia is the main and, in my view, the biggest threat to the security of the Baltic States and NATO. It is important to identify external threats to the unity and strength of the Alliance. I urged NATO leaders to strengthen defense of our region to deter Russia”, the President said after the NATO Summit in London.
At the meeting on December 4 which coincides with the 70th anniversary of the Alliance, NATO leaders discussed collective security threats such as aggressive Russia’s actions, relations with China and terrorism. The meeting addressed the need to strengthen defense and deterrence in all strategic areas, increase defense spending, modernize and adapt NATO to modern threats, and strengthen cooperation between the Alliance and the European Union.
President Nausėda who spoke at the session highlighted the importance of NATO’s unity and solidarity in ensuring security of allied countries. The President drew the attention of NATO leaders to Lithuania’s defense plans: “We are pleased with this significant achievement that will contribute to the security of our region.”
The President reminded that Lithuania allocated 2 percent of GDP for national defense and planned to increase defense spending up to 2.5 percent of GDP by 2030. The President pointed out that air defense in the Baltic States needed more attention. To conclude his speech at the NATO session, the President referred to NATO enlargement and urged the allies to support Ukraine and Georgia’s accession aspirations.
