Former Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaitė expressed concerns about Russia posing a constant threat to Europe under Vladimir Putin in an interview with Euronews. She called for increased investment in the defense industry to address this ongoing challenge. Grybauskaitė also emphasized that Lithuania will continue to be a responsible partner for the European Union and Ukraine, even if a centre-left government is formed in the country. She anticipated that Lithuania’s foreign policy stance will remain pro-European, pro-NATO, and pro-Ukrainian, regardless of the outcome of the legislative elections in the country.
The first round of Lithuania’s legislative elections saw the centre-left Social Democratic Party leading, with a runoff vote scheduled for October 27. Internal security issues remain a key concern in Lithuania’s elections due to its strategic position on NATO and the European Union’s eastern flank. Grybauskaitė warned against allowing a peace deal in Ukraine that would permit Russia to maintain occupied territories, as it could lead to further aggression from Moscow against neighboring countries, including the Baltic States. She highlighted the importance of the West and NATO standing firm against Putin’s Russia in order to prevent future acts of aggression.
Grybauskaitė believes that as long as Vladimir Putin remains in power, Russia will continue to pose a threat to Europe. She emphasized the danger of Putin’s aggressive policies towards neighboring countries, making him a constant threat to the European Union and its allies. The former Lithuanian president urged Europe to invest rapidly in the defense industry regardless of the outcome of the upcoming US elections, as the challenges posed by Russia will persist. Grybauskaitė emphasized the need for Europe to build military capabilities and streamline decision-making processes to respond effectively to potential threats from Russia.
During the Estoril Conferences in Portugal, Grybauskaitė participated in a panel discussion on diplomacy and international cooperation. Alongside former Mongolian President Elbegdorj Tsakhia and former Tunisian Prime Minister Mehdi Jomaa, she discussed the importance of addressing global challenges and fostering collaboration among nations. Grybauskaitė’s insights highlighted the need for proactive measures to counter the threats posed by Russia and to strengthen European defense capabilities. The former Lithuanian president’s remarks underscored the urgency of investing in the defense industry and maintaining a united front against potential acts of aggression in the region.
