“This historic summit of the Baltic states and the United States has made the best impression on us. The Baltic states and the U.S.A. have noted a mutual desire to strengthen their transatlantic ties in order to effectively combat terrorism, hybrid threats, and to deal with aggressive behaviour from some countries. Together with the U.S.A., we can succeed in the fight against terrorism both through the reform of NATO and by identifying the future of EU-NATO relations,” Lithuania’s Foreign Minister said.
According to Linkevičius, so far insufficient attention has been given to warnings about Russia’s behaviour that were heard a decade ago. He also noted that it was necessary to shape our policy bearing in mind steps taken by this country and developments, rather than oral statements. In addition, a realistic approach and a coherent policy are needed in order to properly protect the security of our citizens and of the entire transatlantic space.
Lithuania’s Foreign Minister noted that Lithuania requested the U.S.A. to help strengthen the nation’s defence capabilities, including our air defence. “We would like to request you to help us increase our defence capabilities. The presence of American troops in Lithuania and in the Baltic states is the best deterrent,” said Linkevičius.
The President of Estonia Kersti Kaljulaid, the President of Latvia Raimonds Vējonis, and the U.S. National Security Adviser Herbert Raymond McMaster also participated in the discussion.
On 2-4 April, the Foreign Minister Linas Linkevičius is attending the U.S.-Baltic summit in Washington, D.C., as part of the delegation led by the President of Lithuania Dalia Grybauskaitė. The Presidents of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are visiting the United States of America on the occasion of the celebration of the 100th anniversaries of the countries.
