Kęstutis Budrys emphasizes that Lithuania will not normalize relations with Russia and calls for maintaining and strengthening sanctions until Russia shows real willingness to end its war against Ukraine.
During a meeting in Vilnius, Kęstutis Budrys, the Lithuanian Foreign Minister, underscored the firm stance that Lithuania will not engage in normalizing diplomatic relations with Russia. Budrys stated that any return to traditional cooperation with Russia is unacceptable, insisting that sanctions must be upheld and intensified. He emphasized the necessity of holding Russia accountable for its war crimes and maintaining its diplomatic isolation until it demonstrates genuine actions to cease its aggression against Ukraine.
Budrys highlighted that the future of European security is being determined in Ukraine, and therefore, it is vital to provide long-term and sustainable support to fortify Ukraine’s negotiating position. He pointed out the critical need to unblock a proposed €90 billion EU loan and increase pressure on Russia by adopting a 20th sanctions package. This initiative comes in light of the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, with Budrys stressing that European attention towards Ukraine should remain unyielding amidst rising geopolitical tensions.
Finally, Budrys mentioned that one of Lithuania's key priorities during its upcoming presidency of the EU Council in the first half of 2027 will be the expansion of the European Union, focusing particularly on the progress of Ukraine's membership. He indicated that Lithuania aims to support both Ukraine and its European aspirations robustly, highlighting the critical role of unity among EU member states in addressing the current crises.
