Ambassador Kudzmanas presented his letters of credence to the OSCE Secretary General

Speaking with the OSCE Secretary General, K. Kudzmanas emphasised that, amid Russia's ongoing aggression against Ukraine, the OSCE must resolutely defend the Helsinki Principles and base its activities on adherence to and implementation of participating States' commitments.

"Support for Ukraine and ensuring that Russia is held accountable for its ongoing aggression and other crimes will remain Lithuania's top priorities within the OSCE," said the Lithuanian representative. Ambassador K. Kudzmanas added that Lithuania will actively support the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), particularly by contributing to monitoring the human rights situation in Ukraine. He also highlighted the need to use existing OSCE mechanisms to document crimes committed by the aggressor state of Russia and ensure its international accountability.

During the meeting, the Ambassador raised the issue of the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia and expressed support for the Secretary General's efforts to secure the release of OSCE staff members unlawfully detained by Russia.

The Permanent Representative also addressed the OSCE's budget and emphasised the importance of adequate funding for the Organisation's human rights activities.

Kudzmanas was appointed Permanent Representative of Lithuania to International Organizations in Vienna, effective 2 June 2026. He brings extensive diplomatic experience, having headed Lithuanian embassies in Moldova, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan and served as Lithuania's representative to Pakistan, Iran, and Turkmenistan.

Photo: OSCE