News

On 8 September, Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys met with Kaja Kallas, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice President of the European Commission, to discuss the priorities of Lithuania’s upcoming Presidency of the Council of the EU, support for Ukraine, the sanctions policy toward Russia and Belarus, and the strengthening of European security.

The head of Lithuania's diplomacy emphasized that, in light of growing geopolitical tensions, there is no time to delay—Europe must strengthen its security and resilience.

“During its Presidency of the Council of the EU, Lithuania will actively contribute to strengthening the European Union’s geopolitical and economic role in the world. Today, when security can no longer be taken for granted, Europe must assume greater responsibility for its own defense and resilience. A strong, secure, competitive, and socially responsible European Union, capable of defending the rules-based international order, is in all of our common interests. Europe must believe in its own strength and act as a global leader,” said Budrys.

The Minister and the High Representative also discussed further opportunities to mobilize member states' support for Ukraine and increase pressure on Russia. One of the main topics of the meeting was strengthening the EU’s sanctions policy and using frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s defense and recovery.

“We will continue to provide comprehensive political, military, financial, and practical support to Ukraine, which today is heroically defending its independence and, at the same time, contributing to the security of all of Europe. During our Presidency, Ukraine will remain at the center of our priorities, and we will strive to achieve significant progress on its path toward integration into the European Union,” said Budrys.

At the Minister's invitation, the EU High Representative shared her insights on the international situation at the annual conference of heads of Lithuanian diplomatic missions, consular offices, and representations to international organizations. It was emphasized that cooperation between Lithuanian embassies and EU delegations around the world is becoming particularly important, especially in the run-up to and during Lithuania’s Presidency.