Mindaugas Sinkevičius, the Prime Minister of Lithuania, has identified the air security of the country as a primary priority. These statements come at a time when Lithuania is part of NATO's eastern flank, neighboring Belarus and the Kaliningrad region of Russia. Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, security has become one of the main political priorities of this country.
Defense Priorities and Security Challenges
Sinkevičius, who has recently been appointed as Prime Minister, expressed his concern about the rising popularity of populist and far-right parties in Europe. He also pointed out the close connection between the Ukraine war and Lithuania's national security, stating that the country is facing a series of incidents related to drones, organized migration, and air balloons. According to him, these developments have increased the sense of insecurity across Europe.
Solidarity and Strengthening Defense Capabilities
Sinkevičius emphasized that "the skies of Lithuania are the skies of NATO" and urged his allies to show greater solidarity. He noted that threats extend beyond national borders and that incidents related to drones have also affected other European countries. Sinkevičius also stated that NATO membership does not mean that Lithuania can simply rely on its allies, and collective defense is only effective when individual members are ready to cooperate.
He also referred to strengthening his country's deterrent capabilities, stating that Lithuania must utilize its own capabilities while cooperating with NATO and regional partnerships. Sinkevičius highlighted the important role of the Nordic-Baltic Group (NB8) as a framework for cooperation among Northern European and Baltic countries.
The Prime Minister of Lithuania also emphasized the need to support those in need within society, stating that military security alone is not enough and that a government must also support unemployed, sick, and vulnerable people.
Sinkevičius referred to his recent trip to Kyiv and Lutsk, stating that Lithuania is committed to allocating at least 0.25% of its GDP to support Ukraine. He also pointed out the existing challenges in Europe, stating that European societies must pay attention to the scale of the experiences of Ukrainians.
