Lithuania does not rule out sending troops to Ukraine if Volodymyr Zelensky formally requests it. The Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kestutis Budrys has noted in the , that any decision of this type would be carefully discussed with international allies and partners, as well as with Ukraine.
“We would discuss with allies and partners what that would look like, and we would discuss with Ukraine how that would be carried out.”explains the Lithuanian minister, underlining that after the Paris summit, when French President Emmanuel Macron mentioned the possibility of expanding the Western military presence in Ukraine, “Lithuania did not rule out this possibility.”
Vigilant destaca que Lithuania is considered a security provider in the regionboth through the diplomacy as through more direct contributions. In this sense, remember that the country has contributed at all times to the security of Eastern Europe, both through diplomatic channels as through his participation in military missions and other forms of support.
Thus, he ensures that, if a formal request from Ukraine arose, Lithuania would take an active part in the talks on how the deployment of troops would materialize. “If such a question arises, I have no doubt that the Lithuanian flag will be there”highlighted the minister, emphasizing his country’s commitment to regional security.
A highly debated issue
The possibility of sending Western troops to Ukraine to support its defense against the Russian invasion has been a recurring topic in international debates.
Zelensky discussed with Macron on Monday the idea of stationing Western military contingents in Ukraineas well as train the ukrainian armed forces. Macron, for his part, has stated on several occasions that he would not rule out the option of sending Western troops to Ukraine if Russian forces crossed the Ukrainian front line and if kyiv formally requested it.
The issue of deploying peacekeeping or security troops was also raised during Macron’s visit to Warsaw last month, where he discussed with the Polish prime minister, Donald Tuskthe possibility of sending forces to help end the conflict, should an agreement be reached to cease the Russian invasion.
