Budrys: we are committed to achieving a stronger, more prepared, and more lethal NATO
Today, on 15 May, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Kęstutis Budrys, is attending an informal meeting of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs in Türkiye. The Ministers will discuss current Euro-Atlantic security issues, the need to rapidly increase allied defence investments, and ensure the necessary defence capabilities.
“We want NATO that is stronger, more prepared, and more lethal. That is what we are committed to and that is what we want to see in the Hague summit and once again to reaffirm that we are ready, we are prepared and we are united,” the Minister told journalists ahead of the meeting.
Budrys emphasized that Lithuania is already the second in the Alliance in terms og GDP share allocated to defence this year (4%) and next year would be the first with 5–5.25%.
“From Lithuania’s perspective, 5% is doable and we have to achieve it faster than by 2032, because we see the speed with which Russia generates its forces,” said the Minister.
NATO Foreign Ministers will also discuss continued comprehensive support for Ukraine. The head of Lithuania's diplomacy hopes that the message of from the Washington summit that Ukraine is on an irreversible path to joining NATO will be reiterated in The Hague.
“A strong Ukrainian Armed Forces will be the first defence line and we have to support them. And we want to see the new support pledge for the Ukrainian Armed Forces at The Hague Summit. And, once again, the NATO membership is the best option to secure not only Ukraine, but also Europe,” said Budrys.
The Minister's full statement: https://www.natomultimedia.tv/app/asset/719249?s=budrys
Social media
