© EPA-EFE/OLIVIER MATTHYS The Lithuanian Head of State is resolute in his backing of Ukraine.
The President of Lithuania, Gitanas Nauseda, following a sequence of discussions with the presidents of neighbouring states today where the situation in the Middle East was addressed, stressed that these occurrences, while undoubtedly critical globally, should not overshadow the war in Ukraine and the ambition to secure an equitable peace.
He communicated this sentiment on March 1 via the X platform.
“I conversed via telephone with the Latvian President [Edgars Rinkēvičs]. We addressed Iran's destabilizing actions in the Middle East and the evolution of regional security. We also discussed Russia's aggression against Ukraine,” Nauseda expressed, pointing out that certain similarities exist.
“Belarus, akin to Iran, functions as a representative of Russian aggression. Furthermore, we exchanged viewpoints on diplomatic endeavors to cease the war and underlined the necessity of sustaining our robust support for Ukraine,” he concluded.
During a dialogue with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, the leaders of both nations also underscored the significance of aiding Ukraine.
“Escalation must not divert the global community from Russia's war against Ukraine. Our focus remains unwavering – continuous assistance for Ukraine and a steadfast concentration on pivotal security challenges,” Nauseda emphasized.
As a reminder, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda affirmed that suggestions by some European officials concerning a potential discussion with Russia do not enhance Europe’s credibility.
“Certainly, this does not bolster Europe’s standing. When a particular leader abruptly declares that they have not engaged with the Russian dictator Vladimir Putin in a considerable period and that resuming dialogue is crucial. This lacks policy consistency. After all, just months prior, we were deliberating Russia’s accountability, the 20th package of sanctions, and stressing that it should be as stringent as possible,” Nauseda stated.
He further mentioned that Putin respects strength and currently perceives it on the part of the United States. However, this doesn’t negate Europe’s ability to participate in the process. This is particularly vital when Ukraine insists that Europe should consistently be an equal participant in these negotiations.