The President at an informal European Council meeting: Despite tensions in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine remains the major threat to Europe

President Gitanas Nausėda took part in an informal meeting of the European Council in Cyprus, where Russia's war against Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East were discussed.

During the meeting, the President emphasized that despite rising tensions in the Middle East, it is essential to maintain a clear priority-Russia's war against Ukraine, which remains the major threat to European security.

"We see that Ukraine, even while at war, is finding ways to contribute to the security of partners in the Middle East. This clearly demonstrates its commitment to global security. Therefore, Ukraine's integration into the European Union is not only a moral duty but also a strategic necessity," the President underlined.

The Head of State welcomed the European Union's shift from discussions to concrete decisions: agreement has been reached on a €90 billion loan to Ukraine and the 20th package of sanctions against Russia. Gitanas Nausėda stressed that accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova have to begin without delay by opening all negotiating chapters, and that intergovernmental conferences should be held in the near future.

Discussing the situation in the Middle East, President Gitanas Nausėda noted that the temporary ceasefire between Iran and the United States offers a limited but important opportunity to stabilize the situation, particularly by ensuring safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The President assessed Iran's actions in strong terms, emphasizing that any attempts to block this strategically important energy route are unacceptable and must be met with a firm and unified response from the international community, including sanctions. The Head of State also stressed that Europe cannot consider returning to energy dependence on Russia.

"Iran's destabilizing activities, nuclear ambitions, and support for Russia's war against Ukraine pose a direct threat to transatlantic security. Therefore, close coordination with the United States is essential," the President pointed out.