"A sustainable and just peace in Ukraine must continue to be our priority. The Nordic and Baltic countries are among Ukraine's greatest supporters and are ready to further increase their support while, at the same time, ensure that Europe remains united in strengthening political, financial, and military support for Ukraine. Without a strong Ukraine, we cannot imagine our region and the whole of Europe as safe and strong," said Budrys.
The Foreign Minister also stressed that the Nordic and Baltic countries also share values and that the NB8 had set an exceptional example of open, modern, and result-oriented cooperation. It is in Lithuania's interest to continue to strengthen this cooperation and to jointly seek solutions to common challenges. The Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of the Nordic and Baltic countries' role in NATO, particularly in preparing for the NATO summit in The Hague. This includes the implementation of regional defense plans, the rotational air defense model, and increased defense financing.
Budrys also discussed with the NB8 Ambassadors a recent increase in attacks on critical underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, by a shadow fleet associated with Russia. According to Budrys, we must tighten sanctions against such vessels and continue cooperation between the countries of the region in finding flexible solutions in line with international law.
