Zelenskyy's visit to Baltic States: Nausėda announces €200 million aid package for Ukraine

The Ukrainian President announced the information on Telegram. 

"Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia are our reliable friends and principled partners. Later I will be in Tallinn and Riga, and today - Vilnius," he wrote. 

Zelenskyy noted that he would hold talks with Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda, Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonyte, and Seimas Speaker Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen. Furthermore, scheduled meetings include dialogues with representatives from various political forces, media, and the Ukrainian community.

"Security, integration into the EU and NATO, cooperation in the field of electronic warfare and drones, further coordination of European support. And of course, our great gratitude. For the uncompromising support of Ukraine throughout the 10 years of war, and especially now, after the start of the full-scale invasion," the President added. 

Lithuanian President announces aid package for Ukraine 

During a joint press conference with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda announced a €200 million long-term assistance package for Ukraine. 

He highlighted that in January, the country plans to supply Ukraine with ammunition, generators, and detonation systems. Following this, in February, the provision will extend to M577 armored personnel carriers. In addition, the country will train Ukrainian soldiers and strengthen cooperation in the defense industry.

"The agreements signed today between the Ukrainian and Lithuanian defense industries are another example of our close military cooperation. We must also ensure the continuity of long-term support from allies and partners. To help Ukraine, the European defense industry as a whole must step up its game, accelerate and respond adequately to the challenging security situation," Nausėda said. 

He added that Lithuania is also forming a mine clearance coalition. 

At the same time, the President of Ukraine emphasized that 2024 would be crucial not only for Ukraine but also for its partners. 

"In many ways, this year will be crucial for our countries: for Ukraine, for Lithuania, for all our partners. Together we must determine what decisions this year will bring us. Our strength must determine this, our unity must do it. These should be decisions in favor of our freedom, integrity, our states, cultures and a just peace for all of us," Zelenskyy said. 

He emphasized that the weapons provided by Lithuania have been helping to defend Ukraine since the first days of the full-scale invasion. 

"All this gives us strength. I am grateful for the new defense support we have now agreed on. It is not just about assistance, but about joint production. In particular, anti-drone weapons, as well as other areas of defense production. The relevant documents have been signed today," the Ukrainian president summarized. 

Zelenskyy holds talks with Nausėda 

The President of Ukraine thanked his Lithuanian counterpart for the support provided to Ukraine. 

"We are immensely grateful for your personal support, the support of your team and the entire Lithuanian society, for the very cordial attitude towards Ukrainian people," Zelenskyy said. 

Photo: Getty Images

He noted that Lithuania strongly supports Ukraine in the defense, humanitarian and political spheres. 

"Volodymyr Zelenskyy also emphasized the importance of the Republic of Lithuania's support for the historic decision to open negotiations on Ukraine's membership in the EU. The parties will discuss further steps towards Ukraine's European integration," the statement said. 

At the same time, Nausėda said that during the talks, the priority will be given to issues that "bring Ukraine closer to victory in the fight against Russian aggression." In particular, the discussion will focus on the frontline situation, coordination of defense and financial support.

Photo: Getty Images

"The parties will also coordinate positions in preparation for the NATO Summit to be held in Washington in the summer of 2024," the Presidential Administration added. 

• Earlier, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda said that if the West stops supporting Ukraine, the likelihood of Russian aggression against NATO member states will increase.