Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting with Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda during the summit of European Union leaders in Cyprus. During the talks, the parties focused on deepening cooperation in the defense industry, particularly within the framework of the Drone Deal initiative, which aims to develop joint projects for drone production and the implementation of cutting-edge technologies to protect lives.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Further Support for Ukraine on Its Path to the EU
Zelensky emphasized the need to spread Ukraine’s experience in building defense systems across Europe. Special attention during the meeting was given to issues of European integration. The President of Ukraine stated that Kyiv expects the rapid opening of negotiation clusters for EU membership. He also noted that in the first half of 2027, Lithuania will hold the presidency of the EU Council, and Ukraine is counting on comprehensive support from Vilnius regarding its full membership in the EU.
“We are counting on the swift opening of negotiation clusters for EU membership. I discussed this with Gitanas. In the first half of 2027, Lithuania will hold the presidency of the European Council, and we expect appropriate support on all matters concerning our full membership,” he added.
Lithuania Confirms Support for Ukraine
The President of Lithuania emphasized that his country will continue to support Ukraine on its European path despite the ongoing aggression from Russia. Nauseda noted that Ukraine is confidently advancing towards full integration into the EU. He stressed the importance of officially starting accession negotiations at an intergovernmental conference as soon as possible, naming 2030 as the target date for Ukraine’s EU membership.
Zelensky also thanked Lithuania for its support in implementing the PURL program and for its consistently supportive position regarding Ukraine on the international stage. The President of Ukraine highlighted that establishing a clear date for EU accession is an integral part of security guarantees and potential peaceful resolution with Russia. He noted that uncertainty gives the leadership of the Russian Federation grounds to attempt to disrupt this process.
It should be noted that the President of Lithuania has repeatedly advocated for Ukraine’s accession to the EU by 2030 and called on partners for decisive action in this direction.