“The Russian invasion of Ukraine fundamentally transforms the security situation in Europe. As result, it is necessary to make long-term decisions on a strong forward defence of our region and to have real defence plans. We look forward to the deliverables of Madrid to reflect the new reality,” said Vice Minister of National Defence Margiris Abukevičius meeting with U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Dr. Colin Kahl in Washington Thursday.
M. Abukevičius also underscored the U.S. presence as an extra security guarantor to Lithuania. “The U.S. presence in Lithuania is a vital and indispensable part of the deterrence and security of our region and we are ready to offer full host nation support. The U.S. battalion rotations that have already taken place proves that Lithuania is able to host U.S. forces with every piece of infrastructure and training condition necessary.”
During the visit to Washington Vice Minister also met with Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Doug Jones and Director for NATO and European Affairs at the National Security Council David Fabrycki.
The meetings focused on strengthening the assistance to Ukraine. “Even though the effective Ukraine’s resistance has made the Kremlin to modify its strategy, Russia does not walk away from its goals. We have continue rendering military support to Ukraine in a coordinated and resolved manner, and this is where the U.S. leadership is indispensable,” claimed M. Abukevičius.
