Lithuania says defence spending typically rises toward year-end

MEDININKAI, Vilnius District - After Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevicius reported that Lithuania had used only 30 percent of its defence budget in the first half of the year, Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas said this was standard procedure, with the remainder typically spent toward the end of the year.

According to the minister, less than 30 percent of appropriations were used during the same period in 2024 and 2025. Kaunas noted that this year's performance was an improvement, despite an overall increase in defence funding.

Kaunas said the remaining funds were earmarked for major defence acquisitions, including infantry fighting vehicles and transport vehicles. The Ministry of National Defence also plans to submit a proposal to the government for the acquisition of interceptor drones.

According to Kaunas, Lithuania has agreements for significant contracts, including infantry fighting vehicles and transport machinery. The Ministry of National Defence will approach the government regarding the purchase of interceptor drones, for which the funds are intended.

The minister welcomed Sinkevicius' demand for detailed spending plans, suggesting that political attention could help overcome bureaucratic hurdles and expedite procurement processes.

National leaders have currently agreed to allocate 5-6 percent of gross domestic product to national defence by 2030. The funding is tied to the objective of developing a Lithuanian army division and hosting a German brigade.

In this year's budget, Lithuania has planned to allocate 5.38 percent of gross domestic product to defence, amounting to approximately 4.8 billion euros.