We are dependent on transatlantic relations, - Lithuanian Foreign Minister Budris says that US presence in Europe is critical
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys said that there are currently no options that could replace the US defense potential in Europe.
The diplomat said this in an interview with German media, as quoted by Lithuanian broadcaster LRT, Censor.NET reports .
"Even if we all started to allocate 5% for defense needs now, this year, we would not be able to create these opportunities even in five or ten years. We are dependent on transatlantic relations. Therefore, we need to look for opportunities to strengthen our ties," the Lithuanian foreign minister said.
Budris emphasized that the U.S. presence in the region is essential, and Lithuania is not the only country threatened by Russia.
"Our understanding of national security is based on two main things - NATO membership and our strategic relationship with the United States. Yes, we do this because our relationship with the United States is existential, but I doubt that we are the only ones in Europe who are also threatened by Russia," the diplomat said.
He added that if "all the structures collapse, and if NATO collapses, then everyone will be at risk and everyone will face existential threats."
Earlier, Polish President Andrzej Duda said that the US side had assured him that it had no intention of reducing the number of its troops in Eastern Europe.
