Lithuania’s Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys said Thursday that any peace negotiations over the war in Ukraine must include Kyiv.
Budrys made the remarks in response to reports that the United States and Russia are preparing a new proposal to end the conflict, which some experts say echoes Kremlin demands. He stressed that Ukraine’s participation is essential.
“Ukrainians have to sit at the table [for negotiations], they have to agree to it. And I have not heard that they are included,” Budrys told reporters in Brussels. “If there is something related to Europe, we are Europe, and we have to discuss what concerns our security.”
The minister said he has not seen the draft US-Russia plan and could not comment on its details. “I haven’t seen the details, so I cannot comment on them,” he said.
Budrys insisted that Europe, including Lithuania, has already taken responsibility in supporting Ukraine. “We have shown that we assume the burden,” he said. “If, at this stage, [the deal] is real, we will cooperate.”
According to US media reports, including Axios, Washington and Moscow have been developing a secret plan to end the war. The draft reportedly calls for recognition of Crimea and other territories seized by Russia, reducing Ukraine’s military to 400,000 troops, and Kyiv giving up long-range weapons. Moscow has declined to comment on the reports and said no progress has been made toward a peace agreement.
Budrys said he sees the discussions as a positive sign that the United States is engaged and not leaving the issue solely to Europe.
He also emphasised that even if a cease-fire or peace agreement is reached, support for Ukraine must continue. “Some misunderstand that once we achieve a cease-fire, support will decrease. No, it will increase. Lithuania has committed to supporting Ukraine for 10 years,” he said.
The minister’s comments underline Lithuania’s insistence that Ukraine must be central in any diplomatic efforts and its commitment to sustained support regardless of the outcome of potential peace negotiations.
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