**Europe’s Security in Focus as Geopolitical Shifts Loom**
Lithuania‘s Defense Minister, Dovile Sakaliene, has urged European countries to “move faster” in strengthening their security. This comes amid recent geopolitical shifts and Russian aggression in Ukraine.
Sakaliene made the comments at a conference in Kyiv on February 24, which marked the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The Lithuanian minister emphasized that when you feel threatened, you take action quickly.
**European Leaders Gather to Discuss Ukraine’s Security**
The same day, European leaders gathered in Kyiv to devise a common strategy for Ukraine’s security and pledge further assistance. However, their efforts are being hindered by the US President Donald Trump’s diplomatic outreach to Moscow and his sidelining of Ukraine and Europe.
“We need to strengthen our transatlantic bond,” Sakaliene said. “Even though we are a dysfunctional family, a divorce is not an option.”
**Calls for Action Against Russia**
Lithuania’s former Foreign Minister, Gabrielius Landsbergis, urged Europe to confiscate the $200 billion in frozen Russian assets and deploy peacekeepers on the ground in Ukraine.
“We need to break this mentality of asking permission from Putin,” Landsbergis said. “Leaders say they’ll send troops if Putin allows it. This is not a joke.”
Businessman Viktor Pinchuk, who hosted the conference, also called for decisive action against Russia. He suggested using the $300 billion frozen Russian assets for Ukraine and increasing the military budget to 3%.
**Western Countries Impose Sanctions on Russia**
The UK has announced its largest-ever package of sanctions against Russia, targeting its “shadow fleet” of tankers and foreign-based companies providing military parts.
Canada and Australia have also imposed new sanctions on Russia. Canada announced additional military assistance, including infantry fighting vehicles and combat support vehicles.
**Russia’s Drone Attack on Ukraine**
On the same day, Russia launched a massive drone attack on Ukraine, deploying 185 Shahed-type attack drones. Ukrainian air defenses shot down 113 drones over 12 oblasts, while 71 decoy drones were lost without causing damage.
Germany’s center-right CDU/CSU is set to return to power after the parliamentary elections, with the far-right Alternative for Germany emerging as the second-largest party.
**Switzerland and Sweden Offer Military Aid**
Switzerland has offered to contribute around 200 troops to a prospective peacekeeping mission in Ukraine if such a request were received. Sweden has announced a transfer of air defense systems worth $113 million to Ukraine.