With the allocation of $350 million for the Baltic states in the U.S. defense budget proposal, Washington demonstrates significant support for us in the field of security, said Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprudds ("Progressives") to the LETA agency.
He emphasized that he positively assesses the U.S. Senate's vote on the defense budget bill of $925 billion (€800 billion), of which $350 million is allocated for the Baltic Security Initiative. This indicates support for the Baltic states from both Congress and the House of Representatives.
According to Sprudds, Latvia has actively advocated for funding for the Baltic states. Furthermore, cooperation with the U.S. administration and the Pentagon is important for Latvia. "We will continue to do this, as we have already implemented a number of specific measures together with our American partners," the minister noted.
He added that the U.S. budget proposal still needs to be reviewed by the reconciliation committees of both chambers of Congress, after which it must be signed by the U.S. president.
"We will continue to insist that this strengthens our strategic cooperation. And we will continue active engagement with the U.S.," Sprudds stated.
The minister pointed out that the $350 million for the three countries means just over €100 million for each, but it is also necessary to have one's own investment in defense.
"This is what the U.S. expects from us — for us to take responsibility as well. Already next year, 4.9% of GDP will be allocated for defense, which amounts to over €2 billion," Sprudds emphasized.
As previously reported, the U.S. Senate voted for a defense budget bill of $925 billion (€800 billion), of which $350 million is allocated for the Baltic Security Initiative.
The budget plan for the 2026 fiscal year, which also enshrines "unwavering commitments" to the security of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia, was adopted with 77 votes in favor and 20 against. It now needs to be reconciled with the version passed by the House of Representatives before it takes effect.
In mid-September, the House of Representatives approved an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for 2026 aimed at strengthening the Baltic Security Initiative.
Funding for this initiative from 2026 to 2028 will amount to $350 million annually. In 2023, it was allocated $225 million, in 2024 — $228 million, and this year — $231 million.
The initiative was established in 2020 to enhance the defense capabilities of the Baltic states and their interoperability.
In March, the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved a proposal from 12 of its members to allocate $350 million annually for the defense of the Baltic states in 2026–2028.
The Senate also approved the supply of HIMARS missile systems to the Baltic states.
The funds from the Baltic Security Initiative are also intended for modernizing the armed forces of the countries in the region and increasing their interoperability with U.S. and NATO forces, which is particularly important in light of Russia's growing activity in the region.
