Lithuania Open to Sending Peacekeepers to Ukraine, Including Air, Naval Forces

Lithuania’s Foreign Ministry is not ruling out the possibility of deploying Lithuanian peacekeepers to Ukraine, Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys said, as quoted by Lithuanian media outlet Delfi on March 3.

According to Budrys, Lithuania is open to participating in a peacekeeping mission, but its involvement will depend on the stance of major global powers regarding the initiative.

“Lithuania was among the first to say—and maintains this position—that no options should be ruled out. We have considered and continue to consider all possibilities, whether before or after peace is achieved,” Budrys stated.

He noted that discussions among European countries regarding the scale of a potential peacekeeping force remain vague, as no official troop numbers have been determined.

Additionally, Budrys revealed that the mission would involve more than just infantry. Air and naval forces would also be deployed to ensure security and deterrence.

“The scale of the operation, based on current discussions, would be quite extensive. It’s not just about ground forces—there will be air forces and a naval component to ensure maritime security. Various forms of participation will be involved,” he explained.

At the same time, Budrys emphasized that Lithuania would not act alone in this mission, stressing that the decision would hinge on the stance of the United States or other countries willing to take the lead in supporting the peacekeeping initiative.

Earlier, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that Canada is considering all possible options to support peace in Ukraine, including the deployment of Canadian troops.

Countries that have officially expressed support for sending peacekeepers to Ukraine include Switzerland, Italy, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada, Türkiye, and Lithuania.