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The President: EU member states must step up their defense capabilities

President of the Republic of Lithuania

October 09, 2024

President Gitanas Nausėda met on Wednesday with the President-elect of the European Council, António Costa to discuss the most pressing issues on the EU and global agendas.

The President emphasized the need to prioritize EU security, enhance the defense industry, support EU enlargement, and maintain sanctions against Russia. He stressed that military and financial aid to Ukraine must remain one of the EU's top priorities.

Gitanas Nausėda underlined the importance of ensuring that the next EU's multiannual financial framework reflects current geopolitical realities by providing sufficient funding for the defense industry, supporting Ukraine and preparing for EU enlargement.

"As the security situation in Europe remains challenging, EU member states must accelerate efforts to strengthen their defense capabilities, develop defense industries, improve military mobility, and increase investment in security. We must continue supporting Ukraine while actively safeguarding our own security because only by being strong can we help Ukraine achieve victory," the President said.

Gitanas Nausėda also highlighted the importance of maintaining the EU's global competitiveness. He expressed support for developing the EU's foreign economic policy and emphasized that joint borrowing should only be used to finance critical needs.

António Costa, former Prime Minister of Portugal, will take office as President of the European Council on December 1.

The President's Communication Group