In a recent interview with Euronews, former Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaitė expressed concerns about the ongoing threat posed by Russia under Vladimir Putin to Europe. She called for greater investment in the defence industry and emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong pro-European, pro-NATO, and pro-Ukrainian stance in foreign policy. Grybauskaitė stated that Lithuania will continue to be a responsible partner for the European Union and Ukraine, regardless of the outcome of the country’s upcoming elections.
The former Lithuanian President discussed the potential formation of a centre-left government in Lithuania following the legislative elections, with the Social Democratic Party currently in the lead. Grybauskaitė highlighted the importance of internal security in the country, particularly as it lies on NATO and the European Union’s eastern flank. She warned against making compromises with Russia over the conflict in Ukraine, as it could embolden Moscow to engage in further aggression against neighbouring countries, including the Baltic States and beyond.
Grybauskaitė argued that as long as Vladimir Putin remains in power, Russia will continue to pose a significant threat to Europe. She emphasized the need for Europe to invest rapidly in the defence industry in response to these challenges, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming US elections. The former Lithuanian president believes that Europe must become more self-reliant in terms of defense capabilities and decision-making, in order to address the threats posed by Russia under Putin.
During her participation in the Estoril Conferences in Portugal, Grybauskaitė discussed diplomacy and international cooperation alongside former Mongolian President Elbegdorj Tsakhia and former Tunisian Prime Minister Mehdi Jomaa. She highlighted the need for Europe to take a serious stance in response to the ongoing threats posed by Russia under Putin, and to prioritize investment in the defence industry. Grybauskaitė’s insights underscore the importance of unity and strategic decision-making in the face of common security challenges in Europe.
Overall, Grybauskaitė’s comments emphasize the need for a strong and united European response to the ongoing threat posed by Russia under Vladimir Putin. She warns against making concessions in conflicts such as Ukraine, as she believes they could embolden Russia to engage in further aggression against neighboring countries. The former Lithuanian president also stresses the importance of rapid investment in the defence industry in response to changing geopolitical dynamics, and the need for Europe to become more self-reliant in terms of defense capabilities.
