Lithuanian and Latvian presidents visit Klaipėda LNG terminal, observe military operation

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda and Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs visited Klaipėda on Thursday, where they familiarised themselves with the operations of the city’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal and observed a joint military operation conducted by the Lithuanian Armed Forces in the Baltic Sea, LRT reports.

The leaders discussed the terminal’s role in ensuring LNG supply and energy security for the Baltic states, as well as further cooperation in strengthening the protection of strategic infrastructure, according to a statement from the Lithuanian presidency.

Nausėda described the terminal as a clear example of regional and transatlantic partnership and energy solidarity. He noted that Latvia’s decision to use the Klaipėda LNG terminal until 2044 confirms its strategic importance for the Baltic region’s energy security. In 2025, 70% of LNG imports to Lithuania came from the United States, demonstrating the potential for a reliable and resilient energy system through joint efforts.

The president also emphasised that the ongoing Russian war in Ukraine and repeated incidents in the Baltic Sea highlight the need to strengthen the protection of critical infrastructure. He pointed out that Lithuania’s long-term efforts in this area have yielded results at the EU level, with updated regulations enabling funding for emergency repairs of cross-border energy connections and the acquisition of necessary reserves.

Around €1.3 billion from the EU’s Connecting Europe Facility budget is earmarked for strengthening critical infrastructure protection. Additionally, Nausėda highlighted progress in a project to enhance the protection of synchronisation infrastructure, led by Polish and Baltic energy operators. The €113 million EU-funded initiative will bolster the security of critical energy infrastructure in the Baltic states, from counter-drone measures to underwater cable monitoring, electronic protection systems, and strategic equipment reserves.

Nausėda also stressed the need to accelerate other strategically important energy projects for the region, such as the Harmony Link interconnection between the Baltic states and Germany, and to strengthen cooperation in renewable energy.

During their visit, the presidents observed a joint operation by the Lithuanian Navy, Air Force, and Special Forces. The exercise involved boarding a non-compliant vessel, taking control, and demonstrating a medical evacuation of an injured person by helicopter.

Nausėda said such operations are increasingly vital for ensuring Baltic regional security. Recent incidents in the Baltic Sea have shown that protecting critical infrastructure requires close allied cooperation, rapid information exchange, and real operational capabilities. He added that the drills strengthen Lithuania’s institutional preparedness to respond to potential maritime threats, reinforce ties with allies, and contribute to the security of the Baltic region and its critical infrastructure.