Von der Leyen called drone flights over the Baltic region part of Russia's strategy
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the drone incidents over the Baltic states are part of a deliberate strategy by the Russian Federation to destabilize democratic societies.
She made this statement in Vilnius, according to LRT.
“This is a deliberate Russian strategy aimed at destabilizing our democratic societies. But, just as on the battlefield in Ukraine, Russia is being defeated,” von der Leyen said.
She also drew a parallel with Moscow’s previous hybrid actions, particularly the use of migration pressure at the EU’s borders.
According to the European Commission president, the European Union will increase investments in anti-drone systems, modern air defense, and the protection of critical infrastructure.
In addition, the Baltic states are set to receive an additional €12 billion under the SAFE program.
Von der Leyen also called for a joint comprehensive assessment with NATO of early warning and anti-drone systems in the region to identify critical gaps in defense.
Lithuania will also receive over a hundred air defense missiles from the U.S. following the State Department’s approval of the relevant agreement.
Lithuania has notedthe impact of the reduction in the excise tax on diesel fuel.
Lithuaniahas simplified the rules for citizens serving in foreign armies — LRT.
The Lithuanian Prime Minister has outlined a condition for dialogue with Belarus.
