Lithuania boosts military ties with Ukraine with €10 million investment in long-range weapons

Lithuania and Ukraine have signed a €10 million investment agreement as part of their bilateral military cooperation to develop Ukrainian long-range weapons known as "Palianytsia."

The document was signed by the defence ministers of both countries, Laurynas Kasčiūnas of Lithuania and Rustem Umerov, who is currently on a visit to Lithuania, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

"This agreement serves as a legal basis for transferring funds for the production of Ukrainian weapons," the Lithuanian minister stated.

He emphasized that this is a long-term commitment for Vilnius. "We will continue to support the production of Ukrainian long-range weapons," Kasčiūnas noted.

Lithuania plans to set up production lines for Ukrainian long-range drone missiles, "Palianytsia," within its own territory.

Additionally, Lithuania will contribute €10 million to the World Bank Trust Fund established for the liberation, reconstruction, and reform of Ukraine. These funds will be used to restore damaged energy infrastructure, residential buildings, schools, and hospitals, and to address other urgent financial needs.

Lithuania's Finance Minister Gintarė Skaistė highlighted that Vilnius continues to provide support to Ukraine amid the protracted war.

"With Russia's war against Ukraine ongoing for 1,000 days, Lithuania continues to deliver substantial financial, humanitarian, and military aid. This fund enables effective support for the restoration of critical infrastructure and public services, including education, healthcare, and housing," Skaistė stated.

This is Lithuania's second contribution to the fund; previously, in December 2022, Vilnius allocated €5 million.

The World Bank Fund, established in December 2022, has brought together 17 donor countries that have raised nearly €2 billion.

Since the beginning of the war, Lithuania has provided Ukraine with over €1.5 billion in aid, including military, financial, and humanitarian support. The transfer of new funds to the fund will take place in the coming days following the completion of necessary legal procedures.

Lithuania is actively assisting Ukraine in military matters. In August, Vilnius announced a new package of military aid, including short-range air defence systems, armoured personnel carriers, and drone countermeasures.

Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė also reported that by the end of autumn, Ukraine will receive over 5,000 drones from Lithuania.

Moreover, Lithuania plans to allocate an additional €40–50 million in assistance to Ukraine by the end of 2024. To date, Vilnius has already provided Kyiv with €153 million in aid this year.

By Tamilla Hasanova