"I need to have instruments. We cannot accomplish tasks without the capability to do so, but the capability we have is on that line when we cannot undress any more," the lieutenant general told reporters at the Pabrade training area on Wednesday. "I will make this proposal. We have to look for other means of support."

Rupsys also said Vilnius could support Kyiv with arms if new weapons could be purchased soon to replace the ones currently in use.

"We need to understand that we also have NATO commitments. We have clearly stated what units we are contributing to NATO. This must include indirect fire or field artillery, maneuver units with firepower and air defense to provide support as a host nation," Rupsys said.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis told journalists in Vilnius on Wednesday that support for Ukraine, including military support, must continue.

He voiced his surprise why the issue of howitzers is being discussed in public.

"I believe matters the State Defense Council discusses are discussed behind closed doors, because these decisions have to do with national security, our support to our partners, and I urge other senior officials to stick to this principle. I am a bit surprised that this discussion is taking place in public," Landsbergis said.

Lithuania mulls giving Ukraine howitzers and air defense systems following Kyiv's request. However, critics say the transfer of these weapons would erode Lithuania's recently acquired capabilities.

For his part, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda told BNS in October a decision on the transfer of this military equipment to Ukraine would be taken at a meeting of the State Defense Council, but he did not specify the date when the meeting would be held.

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