Lithuania's Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys has criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating that his claims regarding an energy ceasefire are nothing more than a bluff. During a period when peace talks are ongoing, Budrys asserts that instead of genuinely seeking peace, Russia is strategically using winter as a weapon against the Ukrainian population. He highlights the severe implications of the large-scale attacks on civilian energy infrastructure, which he states are designed to instill fear and suffering by leaving people without heat and light during freezing temperatures.

The foreign minister emphasizes that these systematic attacks on energy facilities are not just military actions but constitute war crimes under international law, particularly when they involve nuclear-related sites. Budrys insists that such actions should be met with significant repercussions, rather than mere words of concern from the international community. He calls for accountability through legal action, potentially invoking the International Criminal Court to ensure those responsible for these attacks face justice.

The context of Budrys's comments reflects the ongoing geopolitical tensions as Russia continues its military operations in Ukraine while claiming to seek a resolution to the conflict. His statements serve as a notable denunciation of what he perceives as Putin's manipulation of international dialogue, using the harsh conditions of winter as a method of warfare. The implications of these statements highlight the urgent need for international action against perceived war crimes and the importance of addressing the humanitarian crisis caused by these attacks.