Seimas approves draft law on compensating damage from downed drones

Lithuania’s parliament, the Seimas, has approved draft amendments to the Military Force Employment Statute and the State Reserve Law, which would establish a system for compensating damage caused by the lawful use of military force, LRT reports.

The changes would allow the state to compensate for damage caused by the Lithuanian military or NATO allies when lawfully using force, including in cases where foreign military drones are shot down over Lithuania and their debris causes property damage.

Compensation could be paid out over a period of up to ten years, depending on the amount and the state’s financial capacity. Both individuals and businesses would be eligible for compensation, but claims must be filed within three years of the damage occurring.

The amendments also clarify that insurers who have paid out claims would not be able to seek reimbursement from the Lithuanian military or NATO forces for damage caused by lawful military action.

A final vote on the legislation is expected in a future session.