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7 March, Vilnius I am glad to welcome the U.S. Secretary of State, my good friend Antony Blinken to Lithuania.

Today, we had the opportunity to discuss the key issues that we are most worried about: Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, further support for Ukraine and steps to strengthen the security of Lithuania and the whole region.

The United States of America, Lithuania and other partners of our Alliance are doing a lot, but we can't stop. We must not let another Srebrenica, Grozny or Aleppo happen in Ukrainian cities.

The provision of assistance to Ukraine should continue. We must call on our partners to check the inventory in their warehouses, increase orders and give Ukraine all the assistance it needs.

Russia's war in Ukraine has created the humanitarian crisis and could also lead to an ecological disaster. Therefore, we must make every effort to ensure that humanitarian corridors are opened and safe zones are set up around nuclear power plants - the targets of Russia's war machine.

I am delighted that the US is beefing up its military presence in the Baltic region, both in terms of  personnel and equipment. The U.S. troops stand shoulder to shoulder with us and other NATO partners. We know that our allies are unwavering in their commitment to the security of our country. However, if we want NATO to grow a political backbone, we need to ensure that the Baltic states' defence is unsurpassed.

Russia’s economic blockade has not yet resulted in complete isolation. We hear that Russia uses some banks, which are not hit by sanctions, to bypass sanctions.  We have to close the gap. Imports of energy products from Russia give this country the financial means for its military operation. We cannot pay for oil or gas with the Ukrainian blood.

And the U.S. stands with Lithuania, with the Baltic states. It stands firmly behind its commitments. It  is here with its soldiers and capabilities. America has put its troops on the ground. They are not in front of a green screen with drawn microphones. The Secretary of State’s visit to Lithuania today once again shows that the U.S. stands together with Lithuania and the Baltic states. And with Ukraine and its people.