The President: A robust NATO deterrence policy and strong national defense capabilities are essential
President of the Republic of Lithuania
December 17, 2024
On Monday evening, President Gitanas Nausėda participated in an informal dinner with the leaders of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) countries in Tallinn. The discussion focused on defense and defense spending, the significance of the transatlantic relationship, and the challenges of dealing with China and North Korea in the context of Russia's war against Ukraine.
According to the Lithuanian leader, a robust NATO deterrence policy and strong national defense capabilities are essential. "At the NATO Summit in The Hague, we need to renew the spirit of transatlantic unity, determination, and strength through concrete actions. The 3% of gross domestic product for defense has to become a new target for the allies," the President pointed out.
Gitanas Nausėda stressed that Lithuania's defense budget currently stands at 3.2% of GDP, and the new government is committed to increasing it to 3.5%. This, the President noted, is just the minimum—Lithuania is working on a project to establish an army division by 2030, which might require allocating 5% of GDP to defense each year.
The dinner also focused on relations with the new administration of the United States. According to the President of Lithuania, it is crucial to maintain strong transatlantic ties while ensuring the continued presence of U.S. forces in Europe. The President stressed the importance of mobilizing resources to counter Russia's aggression against Ukraine and aligning Europe's policy with the US global agenda, including in the Indo-Pacific region. Gitanas Nausėda noted that the security of the Indo-Pacific is closely linked to Euro-Atlantic security, and therefore, it is essential to seek a consistent position between the EU and NATO on China.
The President's Communication Group
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