The meeting agenda is planned to cover the regional security situation, defence cooperation opportunities and the U.S. assistance to Ukraine. A special highlight of the meeting will be the U.S. force presence in Europe, region and Lithuania.
“Lithuania places high value on the U.S. force presence in our country and the region as the cornerstone of security. We appreciate not just their presence but also active collaboration. Lithuania is doing our homework: we are increasing defence spending at the highest rate in NATO with the next defence budget set on 5.25% of GDP. We are also investing in combat capabilities, infrastructure and developing the national division. To date, 20% of our defence acquisitions are contracts with the United States. This is more than just security, this is an expression of strategic partnership,” said Minister D. Šakalienė.
In the meeting Minister will update Secretary of Defense on Lithuania’s progress on developing the infrastructure for Allied forces, including of the U.S., in the country, and plans of Lithuania’s defence capability development and the Lithuanian Armed Forces’ modernization, as well as the options for cooperation in the area of defence industry. Minister will also extend gratitude for the U.S. decision to deploy a battalion-sized unit in Lithuania for heel-to-toe presence taken in 2019.
U.S. troops on the ground in Lithuania is a clear message to the Kremlin.
