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Budrys: Europe must clearly show that it takes its defence and security seriously

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Updated 2025-10-17

On 15 October, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys met with the heads of diplomatic representations of the EU member states accredited to Lithuania. During the meeting, the minister and ambassadors discussed current issues on the EU agenda and Lithuania's foreign policy priorities.

According to the Minister, Russia's escalation and repeated violations of the EU member states' airspace demonstrate the need for a response that would deter such actions by Russia in the future.

"Increasing European defence capabilities through the implementation of NATO's decision to allocate 5% of GDP to defense needs must be a top priority for Europe. Europe needs to show clearly that it takes its defence and security seriously and that it is determined to implement the solutions that this entails. It is also important for Lithuania that there is an EU-wide awareness of the collective need to pay more attention to strengthening the security and defence of the EU countries bordering Russia and Belarus," the Minister said.

According to Budrys, it is also necessary to tighten sanctions against Russia with the EU's 19th sanctions package, to counter the Russian shadow fleet, and to strengthen financial and military support for Ukraine.

The meeting, traditionally held twice a year at the initiative of the Presidency of the Council of the EU, was this time organized at the invitation of the Danish Ambassador Grete Sillasen. Denmark holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU from 1 July to 31 December this year.