Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys on a Working Visit to Helsinki
On 2nd October 2026, Minister of Foreign Affairs Kęstutis Budrys visited Helsinki, where he met with Finnish Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen and United States of America Deputy Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Thomas DiNanno.
Minister Budrys also participated in the 5th Helsinki Security Forum panel discussion, “Frontline States and the Future of Security and Preparedness.” This year’s forum examined European security and defence co-operation, transatlantic relations, technological sovereignty, defence innovation, energy and climate resilience, nuclear deterrence, and Russia’s role in the European security environment.
During the discussion, Minister Budrys stressed that the European Union should complement NATO's activities without duplicating the Alliance’s structures. “Russia does not believe in our concepts, documents, or ideas. It believes in what it can see: steel and armour, especially when they are deployed right on its border,” the Minister said.
The Minister also emphasized that there is still a lack of clarity within the European Union on security and defence matters. “It is precisely in the frontline states that I see a complete alignment of interests and a clear position, namely among the Nordic and Baltic countries, as well as Poland and Germany,” said Kęstutis Budrys.
During his meeting with Elina Valtonen, the ministers discussed bilateral relations, regional security issues, strengthening transatlantic ties, and support for Ukraine. They also explored opportunities to expand economic co-operation, particularly in the defence industry, quantum technologies, financial technologies, life sciences, lasers, and photonics sectors. “Finland is a close partner of Lithuania in the European Union and a reliable NATO ally. We are connected not only by intensive and steadily strengthening bilateral relations, but also by a shared approach to the security of Europe, the Arctic, and the transatlantic area, all of which are closely interconnected. Lithuania is interested in expanding cooperation in civil protection, societal resilience, the protection of critical infrastructure, and mobilisation,” Kęstutis Budrys said.
In his meeting with Thomas DiNanno, Minister Budrys thanked the United States of America for its consistent contribution to deterrence and security on NATO’s eastern flank. “For Lithuania, the United States is a strategic ally and a reliable partner whose commitment to our defence is unwavering. A clear example is the presence of American troops in Lithuania and across the region, which constitutes the strongest possible deterrent against any adversary. We highly appreciate the U.S. decision to increase its troop presence and deploy two battalions in our country. We are also grateful for the Baltic Security Initiative, which helps strengthen and modernise the Lithuanian Armed Forces by investing in the capabilities most needed for our defence today. This partnership not only enhances our security and strengthens public confidence, but also clearly demonstrates that the transatlantic bond remains close and strong,” said Kęstutis Budrys.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated Lithuania’s commitment to contributing to the U.S.-led International Maritime Security Mission in the Strait of Hormuz region.
Photos: Prime Minister’s Office of Finland, Embassy of Lithuania in Helsinki, Finnish Institute of International Affairs.
