Red lines must be crossed: Lithuanian president calls for providing Ukraine with fighter jets "without delay"

In an interview with LRT Nauseda said that Russia imposes "red lines" on democratic countries through threats and intimidation. At the same time, many of the restrictions that were in place at the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion have already been overcome by Western partners, the Lithuanian president emphasized. As an example, he cited Germany, which at first promised only helmets and body armor, and then handed over battle tanks and other weapons.

"I am speaking not only about tanks. Ukraine’s EU candidate status was once a taboo, a red line, too. I remember it well," Nauseda said.

"This Rubicon has been crossed, so I do hope that this red line – if it really exists, and I think it exists only in our heads – will also be crossed," he added, referring to Kyiv's request for fighter jets and long-range missiles.

The Lithuanian leader emphasized that fighter jets and long-range missiles are important military assistance.

"At this crucial stage in the war, where the turning point is about to happen, it is vital that we act without delay," Nauseda said.

• Former Pentagon chief Mark Esper also called on the United States to provide Ukraine with fighter jets and long-range missiles as soon as possible.

• Poland has announced its readiness to provide Ukraine with its F-16 fighter jets if it is agreed upon at the NATO level.