Lithuanian PM: NATO’s true strength lies in people’s resilience and courage to resist fear

Europe faces some of its most severe security challenges in decades, but Lithuania’s true defence lies in societal resilience and unity, Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė told NATO parliamentarians on Monday, as reported by LRT.

“Your presence here sends a strong and important message: democracies stand together. Allies stand together. And NATO remains united, strong, and ready to defend our shared security and values,” Ruginienė said in her address to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (PA) in Vilnius.

She underscored that Russia’s aggression against Ukraine continues to threaten not only European security but also the principles of freedom, sovereignty, and international law. “For Lithuania, NATO is the cornerstone of our security. But NATO is more than military power—it is a community built on trust, responsibility, solidarity, and democratic values.”

The prime minister argued that the alliance’s real strength extends beyond weaponry and military plans. “The true strength of NATO is our people. The resilience of our societies. The courage of citizens to refuse fear. Democratic societies that remain united in the face of pressure. And our shared conviction that freedom is worth defending,” she stated.

Ruginienė highlighted Lithuania’s efforts to bolster its defences, including record military spending of 5.38% of GDP—one of the highest in NATO—as well as investments in civil defence, energy security, and resilience against hybrid threats and disinformation. The country is also developing its national division, expanding military infrastructure, and improving conditions for allied forces, including the upcoming permanent deployment of a German brigade and continued US troop presence.

“Our message is clear: Lithuania is ready to defend itself, contribute to collective defence, and stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies,” she said, urging Europe to further strengthen its defence capabilities and increase security investments. She also stressed that transatlantic unity remains essential for credible deterrence and defence.

Addressing Russia’s war in Ukraine, Ruginienė reaffirmed Lithuania’s unwavering support, stating that Ukrainians “are not only fighting for their own freedom and independence but also for the values we all believe in—freedom, democracy, sovereignty, and human dignity.” She added that lasting peace can only be achieved through unity, strength, and sustained aid to Ukraine.

The prime minister called for continued investment in both military capabilities and societal resilience, emphasising that “together, united by a common purpose and values, we remain stronger than any threat we face.”

The NATO PA plenary session began in Vilnius on Monday, with delegations visiting Lithuania as part of the event.