The President said that the brutal war launched by Russia in Ukraine has united Europe and that it has joined forces to defend freedom and democracy. He underlined that in the context of Russia’s aggression and war crimes, Europe’s long-lasting and united support and solidarity with Ukraine is the only right path.
The President stressed that, in addition to military support for Ukraine, the issue of reconstruction must also be addressed.
“The reconstruction of Ukraine cannot be put off until the end of the war. Reconstructing and rebuilding the country is a key factor for Ukraine’s faster integration into the European Union. We need to see it as a coherent process. The start of accession negotiations this year would be a strong impetus for progress,” the President said.
Speaking about the prospects for peace talks, Gitanas Nausėda pointed out that they can be held only under conditions acceptable to Ukraine and based on Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“Peace on terms unacceptable to Ukraine would mean victory for the aggressor. Any proposals by third countries to give up territories in exchange for negotiations are irresponsible and inadmissible. Russia has invaded a sovereign state and started a bloody war. The aggressor must be brought to justice in an international court and must compensate Ukraine for damages,” the President said.
Gitanas Nausėda underlined that Russia’s actions indicate that it plans to continue violating international law, disregard the international rules-based order and seek confrontation with democracies. It is, therefore, necessary to increase pressure on the aggressor: continue the sanctions and prevent their unwarranted exemptions and circumvention.
The President pointed out that next year Lithuania will take over the Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe and that its priorities will be focused on Ukraine and the development of freedom and democracy.
