„After allocating such funds to defence, then begging for handouts from tobacco manufacturers is, to put it mildly... This giant’s next visit will be about why tobacco excise taxes shouldn’t be raised if they haven’t happened already.
The prime minister’s public health degree is probably shedding crocodile tears,“ Veryga stated on Facebook, sharing photos published by the government.
On Monday at the Government, Michal Mierzejewski, Vice President of Philip Morris International for Northern and Eastern Europe, symbolically handed over drones to Prime Minister Ruginienė is intended to combat smuggling and hybrid threats at Lithuania’s borders.
„It may seem like a purely symbolic gesture to hand over a drone, but it is a very important sign. And every time we see companies taking responsibility not only for their employees and their business, but also for carrying out very important national tasks and contributing to national goals, it is truly a promising step,“ said the prime minister.
„I am very grateful that we have companies in Lithuania that take a responsible approach to their business rather than just going through the motions. Today’s example, where a company not directly involved in defence contributes to national security, demonstrates that Lithuania is making every effort to be safer today,“ she emphasised.
A total of 7 drones were delivered, specifically equipped for complex day-and-night missions.
According to the government, the aid provided exceeds EUR 150,000. These unmanned aerial vehicles are equipped with high-resolution optical cameras and thermal imagers and can ascend to altitudes exceeding 5 km. They can also accurately detect high-flying objects.
Following the official handover, the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union (LRU) demonstrated the capabilities of these drones in Vincas Kudirka Square.