As the second anniversary of the war in Ukraine is approaching, Lithuania has hit the milestone of EUR 570 million worth of military assistance extended to Ukraine. The ministry of Defence provides military equipment, weapons, ammunition, contributions in international funds to Ukraine in its fight for freedom, while the Lithuanian population strongly stand behind it all.
The poll carried out by request by the Minister of National Defence back in December showed that 76 percent of respondents approve of the military assistance to Ukraine. The impressive 86 percent support Ukraine’s NATO membership aspirations.
According to Minister of Defence, the poll demonstrates that Lithuania understands: Ukraine has been fighting for two years now security that is Lithuania’s and European, not just Ukraine’s.
“The brutal Russian war in Ukraine carries on so we need to stay united and support Ukraine in every way possible. The support to the Armed Forces of Ukraine remains one of the key Lithuania’s priorities besides building up our own security. We will provide assistance to Ukraine as long as it takes until its sovereignty and territorial integrity are defended,” underscored A. Anušauskas.
Minister says that Lithuania is now mainly focusing on coordinating the demining coalition for Ukraine which was established by signature of 21 nations in Brussels last week.
“The aim of the coalition is to assist the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine in humanitarian and military demining. It is centered on acquiring the equipment needed and training the Ukrainians,” Minister said.
Lithuania also joined two other coalitions then, of drones and artillery, led by NATO Allies. It will start off with contribution of 155 mm ammunition, drones and drone jamming equipment.
The public opinion poll was carried out by Spinter Research at the request by the Ministry of National Defence on 15–23 December 2023.
MoD / SSgt A. Čemerka
