Vilnius Outlines Key Strategic Support Areas for Ukraine: Lithuania’s Top Three Priorities on the Path to Euro-Integration and Defense Security
Lithuania has announced its focus on three main strategic directions to support Ukraine in strengthening its defense capabilities and advancing its integration into the European community.
Vilnius is actively implementing extensive projects aimed at reinforcing Ukraine across various sectors, including military aid, infrastructure development, and political stability.
During a joint press conference with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, Lithuania’s Foreign Minister, Kęstutis Butriš, outlined these three priority areas.
The first involves a billion dollars in military and security assistance, not only funding defense programs but also supporting the modernization of Ukrainian armed forces and training personnel.
The second pillar is the establishment of a Central Project Management Agency in Kyiv to streamline and coordinate international aid and reform initiatives.
The third area encompasses educational programs designed to train future Ukrainian specialists and the construction of shelters and protective facilities to enhance civilian safety.
According to Butriš, Lithuania also emphasizes strengthening Ukraine’s institutional capacity to facilitate its European integration.
Additionally, Lithuania plans to extend temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until March 2027, providing further opportunities for Ukrainians on Lithuanian territory.
On the defense front, cooperation includes integrating Ukrainian experiences within NATO, developing drone technologies, and enhancing airspace defense systems.
Special attention is paid to sanctions policy against Russia: Lithuania urges the swift adoption of the EU’s 19th sanctions package and advocates for a complete ban on importing Russian energy resources, including liquefied natural gas.
As previously reported, the European Commission has approved this package, which must then be ratified by the EU Council before becoming binding.