Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda on Tuesday questioned the use of the term “hybrid threats” to describe Russian operations, saying some recent attacks were “kinetic,” according to broadcaster LRT.
– In a statement released by the presidential office, Nauseda described the term as a “convenient euphemism” that avoids clearly defining the nature of the activities.
– “Some of the recent attacks in essence are kinetic attacks,” he said.
– Nauseda made the remarks while opening the Berlin Security Conference, co-hosted by Germany and Lithuania.
– He said the transatlantic relationship remained the foundation of collective security and that greater European responsibility for its own defense should strengthen NATO.
– The president also highlighted defense cooperation between Lithuania and Germany, referring to Germany’s decision to deploy its 45th Armored Brigade in Lithuania and cooperation between the two countries’ defense industries.
– He described Germany as Lithuania’s most important partner in the sector, citing the construction of a Rheinmetall artillery ammunition factory in Lithuania and a joint project with KNDS to assemble, maintain and repair Leopard tanks.
– Nauseda also outlined Lithuania’s priorities for its presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2027.
– Security and defense, internal security, EU enlargement and competitiveness will be among the priorities, he said.
– According to the presidential office, Lithuania will seek to ensure long-term support for Ukraine’s security and defense, strengthen Europe’s defense readiness, including through the Eastern Flank Watch initiative, and improve military mobility.