Lithuania supports US efforts to secure Strait of Hormuz
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has expressed support for US efforts to find a diplomatic solution to secure the Strait of Hormuz, following a memorandum signed by the US and Iran to end the war in the Middle East, LRT reports.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Nausėda said Lithuania backs US initiatives to ensure stability in the region and free movement through the strait, which is critical for global oil prices and inflation. “Europe greatly depends on stability in this region and stable maritime traffic,” he stated.
He also emphasized the need for long-term solutions, including reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Lithuania currently generates 73% of its electricity from renewable sources and aims to meet 100% of its needs this way by 2028.
Lithuania has already approved the deployment of up to 40 military and civilian personnel to participate in demining missions in the Strait of Hormuz. Nausėda confirmed the country is ready to join the mission at any time, having already sent strong signals to the US and partners about its preparedness.
“From the very beginning, we sent a strong signal to the US and our partners that we are ready to participate with very specific demining capabilities. We are politically committed, have made all necessary decisions, and are ready, waiting for the signal,” he said.
The US and Iran signed their agreement on Thursday, though key issues regarding Iran’s nuclear program remain unresolved, with a 60-day negotiation period planned. The deal has faced criticism, including claims that pre-war objectives were abandoned and that Iran’s power was strengthened.
On separate diplomatic efforts, Nausėda commented on European Council President Antonio Costa’s attempts to establish contact with Russia for potential peace talks. The Lithuanian president stated that now is not the time for such negotiations, as Russia must first recognize the need to make concessions.
“The right moment for such action will be when Russia understands it must compromise on some issues,” Nausėda said. He added that the EU must speak with a unified voice on Russia, learning from past mistakes where individual leaders’ attempts to engage with Vladimir Putin failed.
Nausėda also expressed doubts about whether Putin currently sees value in engaging with the EU, noting that while sanctions have harmed Russia’s economy, it remains unclear if this is enough to bring Moscow to the negotiating table.