In his speech, the President underscored Germany’s important role in the geopolitical processes of the region. He pointed out that remembering the lessons of the recent decades, especially in the ongoing situation, was very important.
“We must acknowledge that our efforts, both bilaterally and at the European Union level, to find a modus operandi with Russia and to prevent new outbreaks of aggression have failed. For too long, we have tried to convince ourselves that Russia would need only one more step, one more concession,” the President said.
Gitanas Nausėda underlined the need to acknowledge that the Russian leadership has a different angle on the world and thinks in different categories. According to the President, Russia sees only weakness when we, acting on our democratic principles, seek to avoid unnecessary confrontation and leave room for compromise – which only further encourages its aggressive behavior.
“We need to get rid of illusions and finally realize that Russia poses a long-term threat to peace, security and stability in Europe. In the current situation, I see no other way to restore stability and balance in Europe than to ensure Ukraine’s victory in the bloody war. There are and cannot be any red lines to achieve this goal. The fact that Germany has started supplying heavy weapons to Ukraine confirms it,” the President said.
Gitanas Nausėda accentuated the need for Europe to take a principled stance towards Russia on all issues – to continue tightening sanctions, to demand accountability for war crimes and the crime of aggression, and not to give in to nuclear blackmail. He also stressed that European unity is crucial for achieving results and change.
The President highlighted Germany's role in moving away from Russian energy dependence.
