Lithuania has committed €30 million towards the procurement of US-made Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine, marking a significant contribution to Western-led efforts to strengthen Kyiv’s defense capabilities against ongoing Russian aggression.
The announcement was made by Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene following a high-level meeting in which defense chiefs from the Baltic states convened with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
The funds will support a joint initiative to acquire advanced anti-aircraft missile systems from the United States.
The pledge signals alignment with US President Donald Trump's position that further weapons deliveries to Ukraine will be contingent on European nations financing such efforts.
The Patriot missile systems, known for their high-precision interception capabilities, are expected to enhance Ukraine’s ability to counter aerial threats, including missile and drone attacks.
Under the initiative, NATO will oversee the coordination of logistics and delivery. The United States has confirmed plans to transfer 17 Patriot units as part of this multinational defense effort.