Lithuania will allocate 5.38% of GDP for defense in 2026, a significant increase due to the deteriorating security situation in the region.

Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene announced that Lithuania will allocate 5.38% of its gross domestic product (GDP), equivalent to 4.79 billion euros, for defense in 2026, thus setting a record for the country. This decision comes in response to the deteriorating security situation in the region, especially after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with Lithuania fearing it may become the next target of Moscow. The defense budget will include not only military expenditures but also investments in infrastructure, such as roads to military training camps. This year, Lithuania allocates 4.05% of GDP for defense. Additionally, the new government coalition has promised to meet NATO's target of allocating 5% of GDP for defense by 2035.