NATO leaders have agreed the defense plan which provides for additional security measures in the Baltic region. It was decided that defense plans would be updated regularly in view of newly emerging threats. At the end of September, chiefs of defense of NATO member states will gather in Vilnius to discuss implementation of the defense action plan.
It was also decided to set up NATO command and control headquarters in Lithuania and other Baltic States. They will help accept reinforcement and organize collective defense exercises.
Decision was taken at the Summit to create the NATO rapid reaction force which could effectively respond to threats and render urgent assistance. It was also agreed on bolstering the level of defense readiness.
According to the President, Russian aggression against Ukraine is a test for NATO. If Russia receives no proper response, it may go further. Therefore, a strong and quickly-reacting Alliance, ready to give timely and effective response to emerging threats is in the interest of Lithuania.
The President underlined that the measures approved in Wales meant not only reinforced Alliance defense capabilities, but also a very clear commitment to defend Lithuania and other Baltic countries in the event of a threat.
As economies of NATO states start to recover, it was agreed to increase defense spending in order to renew the necessary infrastructure, bolster supplies and equipment, and train competent experts in logistics and management. For the purposes of deepening cooperation among NATO members, it was decided to organize more joint military exercises during which troops could learn interoperability.
NATO leaders voiced their strong support to Ukraine and agreed on concrete assistance measures for this country. Four trust funds were established at the Wales Summit, they will help Ukraine reform its armed forces and improve their capacity as well as counter cyber threats. Lithuania will contribute to providing assistance to Ukraine. The NATO-Ukraine cooperation will be further deepened reinforcing advisory presence at the NATO office in Kyiv.
The Summit approved a package of cooperation measures for Georgia. It is also expected to strengthen cooperation with Moldova that will participate in the enhanced defense capabilities initiative.
