Lithuania calls on Estonia to join coalition for demining Ukraine

VILNIUS – Lithuanian Defense Minister Arvydas Anusauskas called on Estonia to join a coalition that is being built to help demine Ukraine, as he met with Kaimo Kuusk, Tallinn's ambassador in Vilnius, on Thursday.  

"Ukraine is our long-term commitment. We urge Estonia to join the coalition for demining Ukraine, either by contributing financially or by purchasing the necessary equipment," Anusauskas said in a press release after the meeting. 

"The first priority is demining equipment and then training," he added. 

A detailed concept for the coalition is expected to be presented in December. 

Denmark, Slovenia, Spain, Belgium, France, Italy, Portugal, Moldova, Slovakia and Sweden are planning to join the coalition, and Poland, Iceland, Japan, and South Korea are still considering their participation.

It was also emphasized during Thursday's meeting that Lithuania has joined an IT coalition led by Estonia and Luxembourg, aimed at bolstering Ukraine's cyber capabilities.

Anusauskas and Kuusk also discussed current developments at the Baltic Defense College and upcoming meetings of the Baltic defense ministers.