Lithuanians launch €1m drone fund for Ukraine

Lithuania's Blue/Yellow Launches Drone Fundraiser for Ukraine

On Monday, July 14, a non-governmental organization based in Lithuania called Blue/Yellow initiated a fundraising campaign aimed at providing drones to Ukraine. The initiative, named Dronatonas, seeks to raise a total of 1 million euros. This effort highlights the growing importance of drone technology in modern warfare and its critical role in supporting Ukrainian defense efforts.

The funds collected through the Dronatonas campaign will be used to purchase a variety of drones, along with the necessary equipment for their operation and additional accessories. This approach ensures that the donated resources are both practical and immediately usable by Ukrainian forces.

Jonas Ohmanas, a co-founder of Blue/Yellow, emphasized the significance of this project. He stated that every night, hundreds of drones are deployed to target Ukrainian cities, creating a sense of fear among residents. However, he pointed out that drones are not only a powerful tool but also an affordable one. According to Ohmanas, more than two-thirds of all frontline requests received by the organization relate to drones. That is why the primary focus of the campaign this summer is on acquiring as many drones as possible.

The Dronatonas campaign is set to run until September 14, giving supporters ample time to contribute to the cause. Over the years, Blue/Yellow has made a significant impact in supporting Ukraine. Since the beginning of the conflict, the organization has already purchased over 5,000 different types of drones and accessories for Ukrainian forces. Additionally, since its establishment in 2014, Blue/Yellow has donated a total of 100 million euros to support Ukraine through various initiatives.

Continued Support from Lithuania

Lithuania has consistently shown its commitment to aiding Ukraine, both financially and logistically. In April, the country’s Defense Minister, Dovilė Šakalienė, announced that Lithuania would allocate 20 million euros to purchase ammunition for Ukrainian defenders. This move underscores the nation’s ongoing support for Ukraine’s military needs.

In addition to financial contributions, Lithuania has also provided specific military equipment. Earlier in 2022, the country raised funds to acquire a Bayraktar drone for Ukrainian soldiers. This gesture demonstrated the willingness of Lithuanian citizens and officials to go beyond traditional aid and provide advanced technological support.

These efforts reflect a broader trend of international solidarity with Ukraine, particularly in the face of ongoing challenges. As the war continues, the need for effective and innovative military solutions remains high, and organizations like Blue/Yellow play a crucial role in meeting these demands.

Through campaigns such as Dronatonas, Lithuania and its citizens are making a tangible difference in the lives of Ukrainian defenders. By focusing on drones and other essential equipment, the country is helping to ensure that Ukraine is better equipped to defend itself against ongoing threats. This continued support is a testament to the strong bond between Lithuania and Ukraine, built on shared values and a commitment to peace and security.