International cooperation

International organisations, including NATO and the European Union, regard Lithuania as a reliable member and a committed partner. The country is known for actively supporting others in the region on their path towards integration, contributing to a more secure and united Europe.

Always Supporting Freedom and Democracy

A strong advocate of human rights and democracy, Lithuania has championed these values since becoming the first country to break away from the Soviet Union’s oppressive regime.

Its path to independence was defined by peaceful resistance. On 23 August 1989, around two million people from Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia joined hands to form the Baltic Way – a 600-kilometre chain stretching from Vilnius through Riga to Tallinn. This powerful demonstration became a global symbol of non-violent resistance, inspiring democratic movements worldwide and contributing to the momentum that led to German reunification.

Today, Lithuania stands firmly with the democratic world, supporting Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and freedom against Russia’s aggression.

Standing Firm When It Matters Most

Lithuania’s progress can be measured in institutions, GDP growth, and international rankings. Yet a deeper measure is simpler: how a country responds when freedom is threatened – at home or beyond its borders.

This principle has guided Lithuania’s actions following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Its response has been immediate, consistent, and unequivocal. Since 2022, Vilnius has advocated for stronger European military assistance, tougher sanctions, and a credible long-term European future for Ukraine.

By the end of 2025, Lithuania had provided approximately €1 billion in total aid to Ukraine – placing it among the world’s leading contributors relative to GDP.

Tackling Global Challenges

Lithuania, alongside Estonia and Latvia, has long recognised the risks posed by neighbouring Russia and has taken strategic steps to strengthen its energy security.

Today, Lithuania is fully independent of Russian gas – an achievement built on years of consistent policy and infrastructure development. Since April 2022, its gas system has operated without Russian imports, making it the first EU country to fully halt such supplies.

A key milestone was the launch of the Klaipėda LNG terminal in 2014, symbolically named Independence, which helped break Russia’s gas monopoly.

Further strengthening regional resilience, the Gas Interconnection Poland–Lithuania (GIPL), launched on 1 May 2022, connects the Baltic and Finnish gas markets to the broader EU system via Poland.

Lithuania has also secured stable oil supply chains through the PKN Orlen-operated refinery in Mažeikiai and the Būtingė oil terminal. Since 2022, Russian oil imports have been fully replaced by supplies from global partners.

A historic milestone was reached on 9 February 2025, when Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia synchronised their electricity grids with the continental European network, ending reliance on the Soviet-era IPS/UPS system. Connections such as LitPol Link, NordBalt, and EstLink further reinforce integration with European and Nordic energy markets.

Setting an Example in Global Security

Lithuania continues to lead by example in strengthening collective security. It has committed to increasing defence spending to between 5–6% of GDP starting in 2026 – one of the most ambitious pledges among NATO allies.

This decision reflects a clear understanding of regional security challenges and positions Lithuania at the forefront of efforts to enhance both European and transatlantic defence.

Cybersecurity Leadership

In an increasingly digital world, cybersecurity is a national priority – and Lithuania is at the forefront of building a secure and resilient digital environment.

Ranked among the world’s top cybersecurity performers, Lithuania holds a leading position in global indices, including the National Cyber Security Index and the Digital Quality of Life Index.

The establishment of the Lithuanian Cyber Command (LTCYBERCOM) in 2025 further strengthened national cyber defence capabilities, ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure and rapid response to emerging threats.

Lithuania works closely with international partners, including the European Union and the United States, and plays an active role in advancing EU cybersecurity initiatives.

Vilnius has also been recognised as the top EU city for cybersecurity startups in the StartupBlink Ecosystem Index 2024, highlighting the country’s dynamic innovation ecosystem and forward-looking approach.

Taking the Helm: Lithuania’s EU Presidency

In the first half of 2027, Lithuania will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The government’s ambition is a results-oriented presidency that advances Europe’s security and enlargement agenda.

“The Presidency’s first and foremost priority is strengthening the security and defence of the European Union and the Euro-Atlantic area, while ensuring continued political, defence, economic, and humanitarian support for Ukraine. EU enlargement and the preservation of a rules-based international order are also vital for long-term peace and stability in Europe,” says Sigitas Mitkus, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The Presidency will also provide an opportunity to reflect on Lithuania’s role within the European Union and assess progress since its first Presidency in 2013, with active engagement across society.

Public support for the European project remains consistently strong. A 2025 Eurobarometer survey showed 77% support for EU membership in Lithuania – well above the EU average of 62%. This reflects a broader national sentiment: in Lithuania, Europe is not just a direction, but a shared home.

Co-creating the Future of Ukraine

In response to Russia’s war against Ukraine, Lithuania continues to stand in solidarity with Ukraine, working closely with international partners to support its defence, recovery, and long-term resilience.

Lithuania is actively implementing reconstruction projects in Ukraine. These include a completed mobile settlement for families in Borodyanka, as well as  reconstruction of a school in Borodyanka and a kindergarten in Irpin. 

Lithuania continues to mobilise the international community to contribute to Ukraine’s recovery – demonstrating its commitment not only to immediate support, but to long-term stability and rebuilding.