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On 9 November, Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys met with Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna in Tallinn.

The Ministers discussed issues of importance to the region, strengthening security and the transatlantic bond, support for Ukraine, the EU’s sanctions policy towards Russia, preparations for Lithuania’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU), and key issues relating to European competitiveness and economic security.

“Russia poses a long-term threat to the security of Europe as a whole and is clearly demonstrating that it has no intention of ending the war or pursuing peace. We must maintain a united and resolute approach towards Russia: increase pressure on the aggressor, tighten sanctions, counter hybrid threats and ensure long-term military, financial and political support for Kyiv. Europe’s security is inseparable from Ukraine’s security, and our support must therefore remain strong, predictable and long-term,” Budrys said.

According to Minister Budrys, with winter approaching, the EU must make maximum use of the instruments at its disposal, ensure long-term and predictable commitments to Ukraine’s defence, and work towards a fairer sharing of responsibility among Member States.

Budrys also highlighted Estonia’s leadership in restricting access to the Schengen Area for individuals who have participated in Russia’s aggression. Lithuania, which has joined this initiative, has already entered 1,356 such individuals into the Schengen Information System.

Discussing the priorities of Lithuania’s Presidency of the Council of the EU,  Minister Budrys noted that the primary focus would be on strengthening Europe’s security, defence, resilience and competitiveness. According to Budrys, Lithuania will seek to translate these priorities into concrete EU decisions and strengthen the Union’s ability to act effectively in the face of growing geopolitical challenges.

Minister Budrys also highlighted another key priority of Lithuania’s Presidency: EU enlargement. During its Presidency, Lithuania will seek to accelerate Ukraine’s EU integration process.