Speeches

Today, we are facing an urgent challenge that threatens the security and stability of the European Union with hybrid and ever-increasing attacks from Russia. From cyber-attacks and disinformation campaigns to infrastructure sabotage in our seas and airspace violations and drone attacks, hybrid threats harm our societies, economies and democratic institutions. The EU's eastern flank is the front line of this new form of war. It is necessary to strengthen the region not only from a military point of view, but also through urgent resilience-building measures in the areas of infrastructure, cyber defence and civil society. Key steps include protecting critical infrastructure, enhancing intelligence exchange between Member States, investing in advanced technologies to detect and counter drone threats, and strengthening our military and defence capabilities. Only a united and strong EU response will send a clear message to Russia that attempts to destabilise our Union will fail. European security is indivisible. Only together will we stand firm against and stop Russia's aggression.

President, Commissioner, colleagues. For more than 15 years, the EU non-discrimination directive has been stuck in the Council. This means that millions of Europeans still do not enjoy the same level of protection against discrimination in their daily lives, whether in education, health care, housing or access to a wide range of services. We Socialists and Democrats have consistently supported this directive, because equality and dignity are not the subject of negotiations. However, as long as unanimity is required in the Council, progress remains a hostage to political fears. Arguments about administrative or financial burdens often hide the reluctance to acknowledge that discrimination is still deeply rooted in our societies. A social and strong Europe cannot be built on double standards. We cannot defend human rights beyond our borders when we fail to enforce them internally. This Directive does not offer privileges, but ensures equal protection for all. It is therefore time to show the Council political courage and make European values a reality.

Lately, Lithuania is facing a new threat when illegal and smuggled balloons released from Belarus violate Lithuanian airspace, disrupt civil aviation and pose serious threats to the safety of the population. These intrusions represent a significant escalation in hybrid warfare tactics. This is part of a broader pattern of destabilising actions by Belarus and Russia and represents a growing threat to the security of the European Union as a whole. Therefore, on behalf of the Group of Socialists and Democrats, we ask that the issue of Belarus' hybrid actions against Lithuania be put on the agenda of the next plenary session, because this is important not only for Lithuania, but also for Europe as a whole.

President, Commissioner, colleagues. The accession of my country, Lithuania, to the European Union twenty-one years ago saved the country from the fate of Ukraine. We have become stronger, both economically and politically, and more resilient to external threats. The same is expected of Ukraine, Moldova and the Balkan countries. Enlargement is also necessary for the European Union. The European Union must therefore be prepared for enlargement, as must those countries which are seeking membership. However, enlargement will certainly not be possible without treaty changes, without comprehensive institutional reforms. We see that it is already difficult to take decisions quickly in the Council. Some decisions are delayed, some countries exercise their right of veto solely for their own narrow interests, and this certainly does not contribute to the European Union's ability to respond and adapt to change in a timely and effective manner. To remain significant on the political map, we must change ourselves, change our institutions and ensure swift and effective decision-making.