Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovilė Sakalienė, in an interview with Euronews, emphasized the need for Europe to be “armed to the teeth” now that the US is moving away from its traditional transatlantic alliance. She shared her family’s personal history of being exiled in Siberia by the Soviet Union, emphasizing the importance of Europe defending itself in the face of potential threats. Minister Sakalienė attended the NATO Defense Ministers Summit in February, where discussions took place about the need for instruments capable of protecting all NATO border states and ensuring collective defense in case of infringement on any inch of territory.
The Defense Minister highlighted the challenging situation NATO finds itself in, as the US shifts towards more cooperation with Russia. She stressed the importance of Europe being able to match the speed of the Russian military industry and assembly of troops to ensure defense readiness. While Europe has increased defense spending, Minister Sakalienė noted that it is essential to keep up with Russia’s transition from peacetime to wartime economy. The recent statements from the US signal a significant change in the traditional transatlantic relationship, making it crucial for Europe to prioritize being armed and prepared for any potential threats.
In light of ongoing talks between Russia and the US regarding the deployment of troops in Ukraine, Minister Sakalienė emphasized the importance of Europe focusing on being armed and ready rather than engaging in discussions. She emphasized that if Europe wants to stand strong against Russia’s imperial expansion plans, it needs to be fully equipped. Lithuania, which shares a border with Russia, vividly remembers the horrors of the Soviet Union. Minister Sakalienė recounted her family’s experiences of persecution, imprisonment, torture, and murder at the hands of the Russians, highlighting the potential threats looming over Europe and the urgency to prepare for any potential escalation.
The Defense Minister underscored the significance of peace through strength during the NATO meeting, as allies discussed strategies to generate strength in the face of evolving security challenges. She expressed the need for specific ways to ensure that all NATO border states, including Lithuania, Latvia, and Finland, are fully protected. Minister Sakalienė mentioned that NATO is at the beginning of a difficult process, requiring Europe to have the necessary instruments to defend itself effectively. She emphasized the importance of being prepared for any potential infringement on European territory and the interconnectedness of defense among NATO member states.
Overall, Minister Sakalienė’s words reflect a sense of urgency and determination towards enhancing Europe’s defense capabilities in the current geopolitical landscape. As the US navigates a new approach towards Russia, it becomes imperative for Europe to step up its defense capabilities to match potential threats. The Minister’s personal connection to the impact of Soviet actions on her family highlights the human toll of political conflict and underscores the importance of being prepared for any security challenges. With the need for Europe to be “armed to the teeth” in the face of evolving security dynamics, the focus remains on collective defense and readiness to counter any potential threats to the region.
