Lithuanian Ambassador Unphased by Trump’s Election Victory
Lithuania’s ambassador to Australia openly praised Trump, calling him a strong supporter of European security.
In Brisbane, Australia, Darius Degutis, Lithuania’s ambassador to Australia, emphasized the importance of Western allies not worrying about a new U.S. president, highlighting the United States as the only trustworthy state.
During an event hosted by the Australian Institute of International Affairs-Queensland in Brisbane on April 16, Ambassador Degutis urged for more support to resist Russian encroachment in Ukraine and deter Vladimir Putin from advancing into the Baltic states.
Lithuania, with a population of 2.8 million and a history of Soviet occupation for five decades until the fall of the Berlin Wall, continues to ban Soviet symbols.
Currently, Lithuania is in a precarious position with Belarus as a strong Russian ally to the east and Kaliningrad, a Russian territory, bordering it to the west.
Notably, Kaliningrad houses a significant Russian military base with more than 25,000 active soldiers, outnumbering Lithuania’s armed forces of 20,000.
Despite concerns that these forces could target the Baltic countries if the Ukraine crisis escalates, they have not been mobilized since the conflict began.
Ambassador Degutis warned that if an invasion occurred, it would trigger the largest military operation in Europe.
Beneficial Presidents for Lithuania
Ambassador Degutis expressed confidence in any U.S. president, noting that America is a dependable ally due to its military strength, economic power, and strategic capabilities.
He cited a statement from the potential new NATO secretary-general, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, advising against criticizing Trump and emphasized Trump’s contributions to European defense during his tenure.
Despite the concerns raised about Trump’s presidency initially, Ambassador Degutis highlighted Trump’s positive impact on NATO and U.S. military support in Europe.
He also underscored Lithuania’s belief that the U.S. remains a key ally in the region, pointing to the presence of American soldiers in Lithuania as a result of Trump’s policies.
Realities of Eastern European Politics
Ambassador Degutis acknowledged the complexities of Eastern European politics and the challenges faced due to historical experiences, such as Soviet occupation in Lithuania.
Reflecting on the impact of the communist regime, he emphasized the importance of fighting against corruption and protecting Lithuania’s independence and values.
Concerns and Visions
Ambassador Degutis highlighted Russia’s ambitions in the Baltic region and emphasized the need for Lithuania to be prepared to defend itself for at least two weeks in the event of an invasion.
He stressed the importance of securing the state and maintaining security, as well as the necessity of strong partnerships with NATO and the United States to counter threats from politically corrupt regimes.
Overall, Ambassador Degutis painted a picture of a fraught geopolitical situation where vigilance and readiness are vital for the security and independence of Lithuania.
