Kaunas wanted stronger Kubilius backing for anti-drone funding

Lithuanian Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas said he had expected stronger support from European Commissioner Andrius Kubilius after the European Commission declined to provide the Baltic states with an additional €500 million for defence against drones, LRT reported.

Kaunas said the decision was disappointing but would not change Lithuania’s planned air-defence procurements. Lithuania would invest its own funds to build the system and acquire the equipment it needs, he said in an interview with BNS.

“When we have our own commissioner responsible for this area, we wanted greater support — not only moral or verbal,” Kaunas said. He added that the request came from the Baltic region and included clear measures, goals and budget lines.

Last week, the Commission advised the Baltic states to use the SAFE scheme, which offers favourable loans. Under the scheme, Lithuania can borrow nearly €6.4 billion on favourable terms.

Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius said last week that the Commission’s decision was surprising and showed a lack of solidarity with countries facing security challenges. President’s chief adviser Deividas Matulionis said the Baltic states would probably ask EU institutions again for a grant.