Lithuanian President Congratulates U.S. on 250th Independence Day, Reaffirms Alliance
Translated from Lithuanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda congratulated U.S. President Donald Trump on America's 250th Independence Day.
- Nausėda reaffirmed Lithuania's commitment as a reliable ally and friend to the U.S.
- He highlighted Lithuania's increased defense spending and support for NATO's collective defense.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda extended congratulations to U.S. President Donald Trump and the American people on the occasion of the United States' 250th Independence Day. In his message, Nausėda wished for continued prosperity, peace, and well-being for the nation.
In an era of global uncertainty, Lithuania proudly stands alongside the United States – not only as a reliable ally but also as a steadfast friend.
"In an era of global uncertainty, Lithuania proudly stands alongside the United States – not only as a reliable ally but also as a steadfast friend," Nausėda stated. He expressed hope that the bonds between the two nations would strengthen further in defending freedom, prosperity, and the values of Western civilization, assuring that Lithuania remains a dependable ally.
President Nausėda emphasized Lithuania's dedication to bolstering NATO through concrete commitments to collective defense. He pointed to the country's defense budget, which has grown tenfold since 2014 and reached an unprecedented 5.4% of GDP this year. "We have never considered, nor will we ever consider, the U.S. security commitment to NATO as a given – it is a mutually beneficial joint activity where we fulfill our obligations, take responsibility for our own security, and are always among the first to heed your call to unite," the President's message read.
We have never considered, nor will we ever consider, the U.S. security commitment to NATO as a given – it is a mutually beneficial joint activity where we fulfill our obligations, take responsibility for our own security, and are always among the first to heed your call to unite.
The Lithuanian leader also stressed the importance of expanding the strategic partnership with the U.S., particularly noting the presence of U.S. troops in Lithuania as a key deterrent against regional threats. He expressed profound gratitude for this support and affirmed Lithuania's commitment to providing host nation support and facilitating training conditions for American soldiers. Nausėda also highlighted the growing economic cooperation, especially in energy security, referencing how U.S. liquefied natural gas now constitutes over 70% of Lithuania's gas imports, enabling the country to overhaul its energy sector.
Our gratitude for this is unspeakable in words. We are fully committed to continue providing exceptional host nation support and creating unique training conditions, strengthening the combat capabilities of brave American soldiers who stand shoulder to shoulder with our forces as exemplary allies on the battlefield.
Originally published by Delfi in Lithuanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.