EU Denies Funding for Estonia-Lithuania 'Drone Wall' Project

The European Union has denied a joint funding request from Estonia and Lithuania for a proposed 'drone wall' aimed at enhancing border security against threats from Russia and Belarus. While Estonia was the lead applicant, the Lithuanian Interior Ministry confirmed the rejection, stating that the project aimed to create a coordinated system for detecting and neutralizing drones along the borders. Despite the setback, both countries' officials, including Estonia's Interior Minister Igor Taro, expressed confidence that the project would proceed with existing funds and potential future financing from other sources. The initiative, originally proposed to bolster NATO's eastern defenses, received support from multiple regional partners but fell short in securing EU financial backing. Officials emphasized the ongoing need for improved border surveillance and coordination in the face of perceived security threats. Lithuania's State Border Guard Service noted that they would continue to seek alternative funding avenues for the drone detection systems.