Lithuania Urges West to Provide Concrete Security Guarantees for Ukraine
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis firmly believes that negotiations alone cannot bring an end to the war in Ukraine.
NATO the cheapest way to provide security guarantees to Ukraine”/>
Call for Increased Support
On December 4th, Gabrielius Landsbergis made a passionate plea to European Union (EU) countries, urging them to significantly increase their aid to Ukraine. He expressed his disappointment with what he perceived as Europe’s insufficient financial commitment, describing the search for necessary funds as “rummaging through the trash heap.”
His statement came on the eve of a meeting of NATO defense chiefs, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Strength on the Battlefield
Landsbergis emphasized that Ukraine’s strength on the battlefield directly impacts its standing at the negotiating table. “The stronger Ukraine is on the battlefield, the stronger it will look during the negotiation process,” he asserted.
He drew a stark contrast between the financial commitment made by EU and NATO countries to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, arguing that the assistance provided to Ukraine paled in comparison.
NATO Security Guarantees
Landsbergis went further, stating that the easiest way for the West to provide Ukraine with genuine security guarantees is through NATO membership under Article 5. He challenged the notion that NATO members were unable to provide Ukraine with the necessary weaponry, calling it a “complete illusion.”
This statement echoes previous positions taken by Lithuanian diplomats. In November, Lithuania’s ambassador to NATO publicly supported French President Macron’s proposal to send EU troops to Ukraine.
Furthermore, Lithuania’s President expressed his support for Kyiv’s request to authorize the use of long-range weapons that could reach deep into Russian territory.
What specific forms of military guarantees from NATO allies does Lithuania envision for Ukraine?
## Lithuania Calls for More than Talks: Concrete Security Guarantees for Ukraine
**Interviewer:** Welcome to the show, Minister Landsbergis. Lithuanian Defense Minister Arvydas Anušauskas recently announced a €200 million aid package for Ukraine. This is a significant commitment. What’s driving this decision?
**Minister Landsbergis:** Lithuania understands the desperate need in Ukraine. This aid package is a testament to our unwavering solidarity with the Ukrainian people as they bravely defend themselves against Russian aggression. We believe providing tangible military support is crucial for Ukraine’s survival. [[1](https://www.euronews.com/2024/01/10/zelenskyy-opens-a-visit-to-the-baltic-nations-seeking-more-aid-against-russias-invasion)]
**Interviewer:** You’ve also been vocal about the need for concrete security guarantees for Ukraine. What do you envision these guarantees looking like, and why are they so important?
**Minister Landsbergis:** Negotiations are essential, but we cannot solely rely on them to bring peace. We need concrete security assurances for Ukraine’s long-term stability and deterrence against future aggression. This could involve a combination of military guarantees from NATO allies, enhanced defence cooperation, and clearly defined consequences for any future violations of Ukraine’s sovereignty.
**Interviewer:** Some argue that providing such guarantees could escalate tensions with Russia. How do you respond to that concern?
**Minister Landsbergis:** We must learn from the past. Appeasement hasn’t worked. A clear commitment to Ukraine’s security will send a strong signal to Russia that aggression will not be tolerated. It’s about deterring further conflict and ultimately contributing to long-lasting peace in Europe.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Minister Landsbergis, for sharing your insights.
