At the meeting, the Head of State pointed out that the current security situation in Europe calls for increased investment in defense and strengthening the defense industry. According to Gitanas Nausėda, particular attention needs to be paid to those countries which face the greatest conventional threats. This requires a strong commitment from all allies to step up the deterrence and defense posture of the transatlantic community to counter the biggest and most immediate security threat that Russia poses.
“Lithuania is significantly increasing its defense budget, which has already reached 2.5% this year, as well as building infrastructure to host the allies, establishing a national division, and modernizing its armaments. It is crucial that all allies recognize the gravity of the current security situation and also increase their defense investments,” Gitanas Nausėda noted.
The Lithuanian leader underlined that Europe has been witnessing a brutal war for three years now, in which Ukrainians heroically sacrifice their lives to defend not only their own freedom, but also the freedom of the whole democratic Europe.
“Both Lithuania and France have been firmly supporting Ukraine throughout this time and will continue to do so. Lithuania has contributed around 2% of its GDP to Ukraine. We welcome France’s decision to provide additional military support worth EUR 3 billion in 2024. However, we must realize that our support for Ukraine has so far been insufficient—it has been enough for Ukraine to resist but not to win. The common goal of Europe and the allies should be Ukraine’s victory,” the Lithuanian leader stated.
According to Gitanas Nausėda, European leadership in mobilizing support for Ukraine is vital.
“Each of us today must be a leader whose decisions will bring Ukraine’s victory closer. We need to find ways to address the issues of Ukraine’s air defense, the supply of artillery and missiles, and to implement the EU’s commitment to supply 1 million rounds of ammunition. We need to consider all possible options to ensure that the necessary support reaches Ukraine,” the President added.
Gitanas Nausėda also welcomed the increased bilateral political, economic and cultural ties between Lithuania and France, as well as the growing defense cooperation. According to the President, the Season of Lithuania in France is another example of excellent bilateral cooperation.
The Lithuanian leader noted that cultural events, political debates, economic forums, and scientific symposiums to be held throughout France during the Season will bring together Lithuanian and French artists, intellectuals, and experts of various fields, and will promote joint action regarding the present and the future of Europe.
