Lithuania’s foreign minister, Gabrielius Landsbergis, urged Western leaders to confirm that Ukraine’s ultimate victory in its clash with Russia is a strategic obligation for the alliance. He argued that it is essential to articulate precisely what it means to support Kyiv for as long as necessary, beyond vague promises. In his view, the phrase should be understood not as a flexible timetable but as a firm commitment tied to Ukraine’s success on the battlefield and its ability to defend its sovereignty. The call came as Landsbergis stressed that the stakes extend far beyond Kyiv, pointing to broader regional and global consequences if Western resolve weakens or fades.
Speaking at a pivotal moment, Landsbergis warned that the West stands at a crossroads. He urged policymakers to move past ambiguous assurances and to define a clear, durable course of aid. He asserted that, historically, the phrase “as long as it takes” hasRisked being interpreted as a temporary effort contingent on attainable settlements rather than a steadfast obligation to ensure Ukraine’s victory. He pressed for a renewed, explicit declaration that supporting Ukraine is a strategic priority for the long haul, one that would endure regardless of changing political landscapes.
According to Landsbergis, if Western partners fail to articulate a robust strategic commitment, the alliance could witness serious adverse effects in the region and beyond. He emphasized that the conflict is not isolated to Ukraine; it bears on the security architecture of Europe and the stability of global order. The message was clear: without unwavering support, Moscow could capitalize on any hesitation, threatening to shift the balance in ways that would reverberate across NATO members and other partners.
Earlier remarks from the Lithuanian foreign minister indicated a criticism of Western policymakers for not being fully transparent about the implications of the Ukraine conflict for their own strategic interests. He argued that some allies still do not grasp that Russia aims to undermine Western cohesion and unity, and that Kyiv’s resilience is essential to preventing broader losses among Kyiv’s supporters. Landsbergis cautioned that wavering positions could encourage strategic setbacks for those standing with Ukraine and could erode regional security over time. The discussion reflects a wider concern that the West must align its rhetoric with its actions, ensuring that commitments translate into concrete, durable support.
In Lithuania, there has been apprehension about Western discussions surrounding Ukraine, including negotiations that might seem to reduce the intensity of Western backing. The minister’s stance underscores a call for clarity: a durable pledge to assist Ukraine until victory, paired with transparent explanations of what that pledge entails in terms of military, political, and economic support. The overarching aim is to reinforce courage and steadiness among Kyiv’s partners, ensuring that the alliance remains united and capable of deterring aggression. This approach, Landsbergis suggested, would help prevent the erosion of Western resolve and safeguard the security order in Europe and allied regions. [Attribution: LRT]