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On 25 June, Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys, who is attending the NATO summit in The Hague, met with German Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephulu. The Lithuanian and German foreign ministers discussed bilateral cooperation, the deployment of a German brigade in Lithuania, the security situation in the region, support for Ukraine, sanctions against Russia, the Iran issue, and the situation in the Middle East.

During the meeting, Budrys emphasized the strategic importance of Germany's leadership for the security of NATO's eastern flank and thanked Germany for its strong commitment to the Alliance's collective defense. The minister invited Germany to contribute to the implementation of NATO's rotational air defense model in Lithuania.

According to Budrys, preparations for hosting the German brigade by 2027 are among Lithuania's top priorities.

"Lithuania is making every effort and allocating adequate funding to create the best conditions for the German brigade soldiers and their families in Lithuania. Cooperation between the two countries in the field of security and defense is exemplary. Only by working together can we build a stronger, more resilient, and safer Europe," said the Lithuanian foreign minister.

Speaking about the situation in Ukraine, Budrys emphasized that Ukraine's membership in the European Union by 2030 is a strategic investment in the security of the whole of Europe. Despite Russia's ongoing brutal aggression, Ukraine, which is fighting for its freedom, is demonstrating exceptional determination and political will in implementing the European Commission's recommendations and reforms. According to the minister, Ukraine's progress is evident.

Budrys noted that security challenges and new hybrid threats now require, more than ever, the European Union countries and NATO allies to come together. It is necessary to increase defense spending, improve military mobility, and consistently build Europe's resilience to hybrid threats.