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The President at the European Council: Security guarantees for Ukraine have to deter any future Russian aggression

President of the Republic of Lithuania

March 20, 2025

On Thursday, President Gitanas Nausėda took part in the European Council discussion and stressed the need to ensure security guarantees for Ukraine.

According to the Head of State, the European Union's continued support for Ukraine—which is protecting Europe from Russian forces at great cost—remains a priority. As the United States negotiates a ceasefire with Ukraine and Russia, it is necessary to closely monitor Russia's actions as an aggressor state. The latest developments, including Russia's unreasonable demands, demonstrate the Kremlin's unwillingness to seek compromise.

"A peace agreement must bring lasting security for both Ukraine and Europe. Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and its people cannot be up for negotiation. A rushed deal without real security guarantees would only pave the way for future Russian aggression," the President stated.

The Head of State emphasized the need for security guarantees for Ukraine with concrete implementation mechanisms, primarily, the EU High Representative Kaja Kallas's proposal to provide Ukraine with massive military aid in the near future. He urged EU institutions and Member States to help Ukraine address gaps in its military capabilities and strengthen its defense industry through investments and acquisitions.

The President also expressed support for the "coalition of the willing," an initiative led by the UK and France aimed at deploying troops in Ukraine to deter Russia in the event of a peace agreement.

"Given that Russia's objectives remain unchanged, we cannot consider it a valid partner. The EU, along with allies, must continue to increase economic pressure on Russia and its accomplice, Belarus. The 17th package of sanctions has to be prepared as soon as possible to include a complete ban on Russian liquefied natural gas, and to extend to additional Russian banks," the Head of State underlined.

The President also called for the creation of a special international tribunal to hold Russia accountable for its crime of aggression, and advocated for using frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine's reconstruction. The Head of State also called for fast-track Ukraine's EU membership negotiations, by setting a target date of 1 January 2030 for membership. "A strong Ukraine means a stronger and safer Europe," the President stressed.

Gitanas Nausėda underscored that the EU's support for Ukraine is part of a broader effort to strengthen Europe's defense. Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion is giving Europe time to enhance its armaments and deterrence.

Ahead of the European Council plenary session, the President attended a meeting of EU Heads of State and Government with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who provided updates on talks with the United States. Gitanas Nausėda also participated in a working luncheon with UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

The President's Communication Group