Following a meeting of the National Defense Council, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda addressed journalists, stating that he believes the war in Ukraine will ultimately conclude through peace negotiations, though he acknowledged that this outcome might not occur swiftly. He pointed out that the intelligence briefing presented to the council members highlighted ongoing national security threats, with a public version of the assessment expected to be released later in March.

Nausėda emphasized that despite the eventual cessation of hostilities in Ukraine, the security risks posed by Russia will remain a pressing concern for the region and Europe as a whole. He remarked on the capability and ongoing momentum of Russia's military apparatus, indicating that it is still operating at a high capacity and not stockpiling its resources, suggesting an unfaltering military readiness. The president cautioned that a military conflict cannot be deemed unavoidable, yet the implications of Russia's ongoing military presence will endure beyond the war's conclusion.

The president's remarks reflect a broader awareness among European leaders regarding the continuing threats that could arise from Russia, irrespective of the situation in Ukraine. As discussions about peace negotiations gain traction, Nausėda’s statements serve as a reminder of the complex geopolitical landscape, where the potential for future conflicts necessitates vigilant monitoring and strategic defenses across Europe.