Budrys: Protecting the airspace of eastern border countries must become a priority
Vilnius, October 7 (Hibya) – Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys met with permanent and military representatives of NATO member states to discuss strengthening allied deterrence and increasing support for Ukraine.
Foreign Minister Budrys stated that Russia’s repeated violations of NATO airspace on the Eastern Flank are not mere provocations but calculated attempts to test the Alliance’s readiness and intimidate citizens. Emphasizing the need for a firm NATO response, Budrys said: “Protecting the airspace of eastern border countries must become a priority for the entire Alliance.”
Highlighting proposals for enhanced air defense capabilities in the Baltic States and a rotational NATO air defense model, Budrys said that Lithuania, Belgium, Luxembourg, Portugal, and Spain’s military contributions and presence are of high security value.
“NATO’s unity and determination are the strongest tools of our collective defense. Only by standing together can we effectively deter Russia,” Budrys added, stressing the importance of alliance solidarity.
British News Agency