Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda on Wednesday dismissed concerns that criticism of NATO allies by US President Donald Trump signalled the alliance’s collapse.
“I believe this is certainly not the end of NATO. As a collective defence organisation, NATO has been the most successful defence project since World War Two, serving us during the Cold War, now, and in the future,” Nausėda told reporters.
He spoke after a meeting in Vilnius with Estonian President Alar Karis, who also downplayed Trump’s rhetoric.
“NATO has a very long history and has seen both better and worse times. I am absolutely convinced that NATO will survive,” Karis said.
Concerns about divisions within NATO have grown following Trump’s threats related to Greenland and Denmark, as well as his criticism of Europeans for not supporting his attack of Iran.
Nausėda said most European countries are prepared to support US operations in the Strait of Hormuz, though formal procedures must be followed.
“However, there are certain decision-making algorithms that must be followed,” he said. “That is why I believe that, in principle, all partners support US operations regarding Iran. Lithuania has declared very clearly from the outset that it is ready to consider any form of support if such a request is explicitly formulated, so our American partners are aware of our readiness.”
Earlier this month, The Wall Street Journal reported that the Trump administration was considering penalising some NATO members seen as failing to assist the United States during tensions with Iran.
According to the report, countries including Poland, Romania, Lithuania and Greece could benefit from the plan, which may involve deploying more US troops closer to the Russian border.
“Regarding the presence of United States troops, I have nothing new to add to what has been said many times, but in this case, no news is good news, as we essentially believe that the United States presence in Lithuania will continue,” Nausėda said.
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