In Kyiv, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak held a meeting with Lithuania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys.

Andriy Yermak thanked Lithuania for its defense assistance to Ukraine. The continuation of military support from partners was one of the key topics of discussion.

Particular attention was given to strengthening sanctions against Russia. The Head of the President’s Office noted Lithuania’s consistent support for sanctions policy and emphasized the importance of the EU’s 18th sanctions package including sanctions against the banking and energy sectors, the shadow fleet, as well as secondary restrictions. According to Andriy Yermak, sanctions will be especially effective if coordinated with the United States, Norway, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Japan.

The Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine also briefed the Lithuanian side on meetings held during the recent Ukrainian delegation’s visit to Washington, stressing that U.S. support for Ukraine remains at a high level.

In addition, Andriy Yermak and Kęstutis Budrys discussed Ukraine’s EU integration and the opening of negotiating clusters. The Head of the President’s Office thanked Lithuania for its position in support of accelerating Ukraine’s accession to the European Union.