In solidarity with the former Soviet Union country, hundreds of Lithuanians have contributed to buying an advanced military drone for Ukraine’s war against Russia.
According to Laisves TV (a Lithuanian internet broadcaster), the drive has raised EUR3 million in three days. This is a large portion of the EUR5m required.
“Before the war began, no one thought we’d be buying guns. It’s now a common thing. Agne Belickaite (32), said that something must be done to make the world better. She sent EUR100 right away after the crowdfunding launched on Wednesday.
“I have been donating money to Ukraine for some time now. She said that she will continue to do so until victory, and added that she was motivated partly by concerns about Russia attacking Lithuania.
It has been proven to be effective against Russian forces and their allies in conflict in Syria and Libya in recent years. The purchase of the drone is being coordinated by Lithuania’s Ministry of Defence. They plan to sign a letter of intent with Turkey to buy it next week.
In recent years, Ukraine purchased more than 20 Bayraktar T2 armed drones from Turkish firm Baykar and ordered another 16 drones on 27 January. The first batch of the drones was delivered in March.
“This is the first time in history that ordinary people have raised money to purchase something like a Bayraktar. It’s unprecedented, it’s unbelievable,” Beshta Po, Ukraine’s ambassador in Lithuania, said to Laisves TV.
