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“Attempts to Break Ukraine Have Failed”: Baltic Nations Pledge Fresh Aid on War Anniversary

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Nordic, Baltic leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attend a joint press conference following their meeting in Kyiv on February 24, 2026, as Ukraine marks the fourth anniversary of the Russian full-scale invasion. (Source: Getty Images)
Nordic, Baltic leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attend a joint press conference following their meeting in Kyiv on February 24, 2026, as Ukraine marks the fourth anniversary of the Russian full-scale invasion. (Source: Getty Images)

Marking the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Lithuania and Estonia have announced significant new military and energy aid packages for Ukraine, officials from both nations stated on February 24.

During a visit to Kyiv, Lithuanian Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas confirmed the transfer of 30 RBS air-defense missiles and crucial power generators, while Estonia pledged $12.9 million to bolster Ukraine’s ammunition and air defense under the NATO PURL  initiative.

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Kaunas visited Ukraine on February 24, marking the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. During the visit, he participated in meetings of the Coalition of the Willing  and the Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB8), ensuring Lithuania’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.

In a bilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Kaunas announced the transfer of 30 RBS air defense missiles to Ukraine to strengthen its air defense.

He emphasized, “This is currently a critically needed weapon for Ukraine, contributing to the strengthening of air defense.” Lithuania also continues to help Ukraine counter Russia’s winter attacks on civilian infrastructure.

Kaunas highlighted Lithuania’s aid, including 90 generators worth over $2.3 million in January and February 2026, and preparations for additional energy equipment, such as diesel generators and transformers, to restore Ukraine’s electricity supply.

At the NB8 meeting, Kaunas stressed the importance of supporting Ukraine’s resilience against Russian attempts to weaponize winter. Despite Russia’s rhetoric of an “energy ceasefire,” Kaunas noted that “Russia continues systematic attacks on Ukraine’s civilian energy infrastructure.”

In addition to military support, Lithuania is contributing to the PURL initiative, providing US-made weapons to Ukraine. Kaunas also confirmed that a new shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the United States will soon reach Ukraine via the Klaipėda LNG terminal.

Meanwhile, Estonia has pledged $12.9 million to bolster Ukraine’s air defense and ammunition under the NATO PURL initiative. Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal reaffirmed her country’s commitment, stating, “Russia’s attempts to break Ukraine’s resolve have failed. We will continue to bolster its resilience on the battlefield and its position at the negotiating table.”

Earlier, it was reported that Russia may be laying the groundwork for a future military confrontation with the Baltic states or another nearby country.

It was argued that Europe can no longer rely on the long-standing American security guarantee that shaped the continent’s defense posture for decades.

Analysts cited in the report say Moscow has already reoriented its economy toward prolonged confrontation, directing as much as 40 percent of state spending away from civilian needs and into defense.

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The Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) is a 2025 NATO/U.S.-led initiative that streamlines military aid by having partner countries finance US-produced weapons based on a prioritized list of Ukraine’s critical needs

The Coalition of the Willing for Ukraine is a voluntary, flexible alliance of over 30 countries, led primarily by France and the UK since early 2025. It aims to provide security guarantees, military support, and potential peacekeeping forces to enforce a ceasefire against Russia, often acting when NATO or US action is not guaranteed.

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