Overview

• Lithuania will allocate 5-6% of its GDP to defense spending starting in 2026, up from its current level of just over 3%.
• This move makes Lithuania the first NATO member to meet the 5% defense spending target recently proposed by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.
• The decision, described as 'historic' by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda, reflects heightened concerns over Russian military threats in the region.
• Increased funding will accelerate the acquisition of advanced military equipment, including Leopard tanks and air defense systems, to enhance readiness.
• Lithuania’s pledge signals a broader shift among NATO’s eastern members to prioritize defense spending in light of ongoing tensions with Russia.