Lithuanian President’s Remarks at the European Council Meeting
At a European Council session in Brussels, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda voiced concerns about launching peace negotiations with Russia. He stressed that the European Union should not rush into these talks, as the Kremlin lacks genuine interest in dialogue and instead seeks to destabilize Europe. Nausėda called on European nations to refrain from involving Vladimir Putin in the negotiation process at this stage, arguing that the time is not yet right.
Russia’s Intentions and Appeals for Unity
According to Nausėda, Russia’s goal is to throw Europe and its member states into disarray. He emphasized that part of this hybrid operation involves efforts to make Europeans themselves believe in a Russian attack.
“I do not think now is the time to start negotiations with Putin, because Putin does not want to see us at the negotiating table,” the Lithuanian president stated.
He argued that a diplomatic process can only begin when Moscow realizes that achieving its objectives through military means is impossible.
Nausėda also urged EU countries to establish a unified stance on next steps regarding Russia before entering any talks. “Russia and the Russian dictator must themselves come to the conclusion that this war cannot be won and that Russians are not prevailing,” he underscored. Meanwhile, according to Western media, European Council President António Costa has maintained contacts with Vladimir Putin’s circle, and the EU aims to secure a seat at the negotiating table for ending the war in Ukraine, following similar moves by the United States.
This position from Lithuania’s president reflects concerns about the potential consequences of hasty actions and the risk of being misled by Russia. Nausėda called for resisting Moscow’s attempts to impose its own agenda and highlighted the importance of unity among EU countries on this issue.
The Lithuanian president’s views align with a broader European Union strategy toward Russia, one grounded in caution and a push for cohesion among member states. The calls to avoid rushed decisions reveal deep unease about Kremlin actions and the potential dangers of peace negotiations amid ongoing active hostilities. This could shape future EU policy in the region and its relationship with Ukraine, as member states work to forge a common response to Russian aggression.
As discussions around diplomatic channels intensify, the European Council President is reportedly making efforts to create a clandestine communication line with the Kremlin. This development comes amid growing concerns from leaders like Lithuania's President, who warn against rushing into negotiations without clear intentions from Russia. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as the EU navigates its approach to the ongoing conflict.