Lithuania Becomes First NATO Nation to Commit to 5% Defense Spending Target

The Baltic state aims to bolster military capabilities in response to Russian aggression, aligning with President-elect Trump's proposed NATO spending goal.

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.