“The U.S. commitment to defend Lithuania given upon its NATO accession only grows stronger. All three Baltic countries are facing the same threats from the East. It is vital that our security partners share our understanding of the security threats and are getting involved in strengthening our security,” R.Karoblis said after the meetings. According to the Minister, the visit by the Head of Pentagon to one of the three Baltic states demonstrates recognition of Lithuania’s efforts to strengthen security in the region.
“I have come here to hear. It is all simple: we stand together, so we have to talk. Let us not forget that we are all members of NATO,” U.S. Defence Secretary J. Mattis said at the meetings.
The Minister of National Defence thanked J. Mattis for the U.S. support to Lithuania in strengthening its security. The leading defence officials also discussed the increase of Lithuania’s defence spending, collective defence and the necessity to strengthen defence capabilities, also air defence, and the possibility of permanent military presence of the U.S. in Lithuania. The need to step up readiness of the civil society for resistance was pointed out. R. Karoblis underscored that Lithuania had a particularly motivated military and a strong support from the society. Among other issues, Lithuania’s efforts to counter the Russian propaganda were addressed.
Defense Secretary J. Mattis have met with Defence Ministers of Germany, Italy, UK, France, Turkey, Norway, Finland and the Czech Republic since his appointment.
