Former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Critiques Western Support for Ukraine
Gabrielius Landsbergis, the former Foreign Minister of Lithuania, has drawn comparisons between modern international politics and professional wrestling, describing the spectacle as dramatic but largely disconnected from reality, particularly regarding Western support for Ukraine. His remarks come amid ongoing concerns over the adequacy of military assistance provided to Kyiv.
“When I hear that ‘Trump is finally disappointed in Putin,’ I recall headlines like ‘The US will allocate $300 million to Ukraine,’” Landsbergis stated. However, he pointed out that this assistance pales in comparison to Russia’s defense budget of $300 billion, framing it as an illusory form of support—essentially a ghost weapon against a tangible threat.
Landsbergis emphasizes that this situation is merely a performance designed for voters. He believes that flashy headlines and dramatic statements form the crux of the Western reaction, yet, behind the scenes, there remains a void: 11 ATACMS missiles are offered instead of comprehensive support, with no decisions on crucial systems like the Taurus, and endless promises concerning Patriot missiles.
He warns that while the media broadcasts eye-catching quotes, real attacks on Ukraine continue without respite. According to Landsbergis, Putin remains indifferent to who is labeled as the “bad guy” each week—he continues his assaults unabated.
Critiquing the American political landscape as well as some European capitals, he notes that they prefer press releases over action. “Ineffective sanctions, a lack of military support, and public statements that change nothing—all of this only aids the enemy,” he argues.
Landsbergis highlights that genuine examples of action are not dramas; they are substantive debates, such as discussions in the German Bundestag about increasing defense spending, or specific actions taken by countries like Denmark, Sweden, and Finland that quietly continue to support Ukraine without seeking publicity.
Landsbergis warns that if the West continues to play this political series, the fires in Kyiv could serve as its final episode. This would not be a fictional scenario, but a true tragedy.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee has approved $500 million in security assistance for Ukraine. However, it remains uncertain whether this provision will remain in the final version of the U.S. defense budget bill, reports 24brussels.
