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Ahead of the informal NATO Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Antalya, the foreign ministers of Lithuania, Finland, and Norway addressed members of the press, outlining their countries’ positions on Ukraine, defense spending, and regional security.
Gathering at the NEST Congress Center in Türkiye's coastal city of Antalya, the ministers kicked off the second day of discussions with a unified call for an urgent ceasefire in Ukraine.
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys stated that boosting national defense remains a top priority for his country. "Next year, we aim to allocate 4% of our gross domestic product (GDP) to defense spending," he said.
Budrys reiterated strong support for Ukraine and underlined the urgent need for a ceasefire lasting at least 30 days. He accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of stalling negotiations in an attempt to delay peace.
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen commented on the upcoming peace talks expected to take place in Istanbul. "This is a matter of a cease-fire. When we finally reach the point where we can negotiate the end of the war, one seat remains empty—and that is the seat of President Vladimir Putin," she remarked.
Valtonen emphasized that Ukraine, although not the aggressor, has repeatedly expressed readiness for a 30-day cease-fire and its willingness to negotiate peace with Russia and other stakeholders. "The only party unwilling to participate in peace negotiations is Russia," she said.
She acknowledged Türkiye’s role in hosting and facilitating dialogue. "Türkiye not only made it possible for us to gather here in Antalya to prepare for this summer’s NATO summit but also offered a venue for ceasefire talks. Right now, what we expect is an immediate cease-fire."
Valtonen added that Russia’s war economy is deteriorating. "With just a bit more pressure, we may be able to push them to end this aggression."
She also noted that Russia’s hostility extends beyond Ukraine and affirmed that sanctions remain a "sound strategic approach."
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stressed the importance of upholding Ukraine’s sovereignty and its right to determine its own future. "Ukraine must remain a free, sovereign, and independent country both now and in the future," he said.
Eide added that the international community must make it clear to President Putin: "If Russia is not ready for peace, there will be more pressure and more sanctions."
He concluded by stating that more needs to be done, both in terms of support for Ukraine and increased defense investments across NATO members.
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