Lithuania’s State Defence Council will decide on the handover of howitzers and air defence systems to Ukraine by considering not only the defence chief’s advice, but also the political situation and other aspects, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has said.
Two weeks ago, Defence Chief Valdemaras Rupsys said he would suggest at the next meeting of the country’s State Defence Council not to hand over PzH 2000 howitzers and NASAMS air defence systems to Ukraine.
“I need to have instruments. We cannot accomplish tasks without the capability to do so, but the capability we have is on that line when we cannot undress anymore,” he said.
According to the president, Rupsys’ arguments will be considered, but “the most appropriate place to do so is a meeting of the State Defence Council, not the public sphere”.
“We’ll consider not only the military advice but also other components, including the strategic and political situation, and we’ll make the final decision that will best meet our national security interests and reflect our solidarity with Ukraine,” Nauseda said.
Lithuania considers handing over howitzers and air defence systems to Ukraine in response to its request. However, critics say the transfer of these weapons would erode Lithuania’s recently acquired capabilities.
The State Defence Council consists of the president, the prime minister, the minister of defence and the commander of the armed forces. (LRT/Business World Magazine)
