The President noted that in the face of the anniversary of Russia’s barbaric aggression against Ukraine, not only Lithuania, but also the entire free world had a strong belief in Ukraine’s ability to resist this brutal aggression, to defeat the enemy, to consolidate democracy, and to create a solid foundation for the future growth of this country.
Gitanas Nausėda pointed out that Lithuania’s and the region’s security was positively affected by the fact that the assessment of Russia as a potential partner had changed dramatically in the West over the last year. The President underlined that even in the United Nations it was becoming increasingly difficult for Russia to find supporters to justify its aggression. Lithuania seeks the isolation of the aggressor Russia in all international organizations.
Yet, the President also spoke of the need to recognize the continuing dark reality of the war. In his latest state of the nation address, Russia’s dictator once again demonstrated his stubborn determination to continue his murderous aggression, no matter the cost. The Kremlin’s imperialist ambitions threaten not only the very existence of the Ukrainian people, but also the security architecture of Europe.
The students asked the President questions about how he understood the reasons for Russia’s fierce aggression, his opinion on mass conscription, the post-war reconstruction of Ukraine, and the international community’s reaction to Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Gitanas Nausėda thanked the Lithuanian civil society for supporting the Ukrainian fight in various ways over this year and for making a significant contribution to strengthening Lithuania’s security.
