PM Šimonytė speaks with new Ukrainian counterpart, reaffirms support

Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė reaffirmed her country's unwavering support for Ukraine during a phone call with the new Ukrainian Prime Minister, Denys Shmyhal. Šimonytė emphasized that Lithuania's assistance, which began before the full-scale Russian invasion, will continue, recognizing that Ukraine's fight is crucial for the security of all of Europe.

"Lithuania supported Ukraine even before the full-scale Russian military invasion and, you can be sure, will continue to support it. Because we perfectly understand that Ukraine today is defending not only its freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, but the security of all of Europe depends on the outcome of this war," Šimonytė stated.

The Lithuanian prime minister highlighted the importance of learning from Ukraine, particularly in strengthening defense cooperation and adopting valuable experience. She noted that Ukraine's EU membership aspirations and its reconstruction efforts will be a priority during Lithuania's upcoming presidency of the EU Council next year.

Discussions also focused on the need to bolster sanctions against Russia, isolate the aggressor internationally, prevent sanctions circumvention, and ensure accountability for war crimes. Lithuania pledged to continue supporting Ukraine's energy sector resilience, especially ahead of winter, and to aid in its economic recovery and integration into the EU.

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Lithuania supported Ukraine even before the full-scale Russian military invasion and, you can be sure, will continue to support it. Because we perfectly understand that Ukraine today is defending not only its freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, but the security of all of Europe depends on the outcome of this war.