Minister of the Interior V. Kondratovičius meets with Member of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine O. Dunda
Minister of the Interior Vladislavas Kondratovičius met with Oleh Dunda, a Member of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. During the meeting, Lithuania’s support for Ukraine, bilateral institutional cooperation, assistance to Ukrainians in Lithuania, and Ukraine’s European integration process were discussed.
“Lithuania is and will remain with the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes — until victory. Our nations are united not only by history but also by shared values: freedom, respect for human dignity, and the responsibility to help one another in the most difficult times. We stand together not just in words, but through concrete actions — and this support will remain strong and consistent,” emphasized Minister of the Interior.
Lithuania continues to receive Ukrainian citizens by granting them temporary protection; since the start of the war, more than 102,000 Ukrainian citizens have arrived in Lithuania.
“I am pleased that last week we confirmed that the theoretical driving exam in Lithuania can also be taken in the Ukrainian language—this is a practical decision that makes everyday life easier,” the Minister V. Kondratovičius noted.
It was emphasized that one of Russia’s objectives in the war is to halt Ukraine’s European integration process; however, joint efforts will prevent this from happening. Lithuania is ready to provide all necessary expert assistance to Ukraine’s internal affairs system and to share experience in the areas of law enforcement and public administration reforms. Lithuania has consistently supported and will continue to support Ukraine’s aspiration to become a member of the European Union.
It was also stressed that cooperation is mutual, as Ukraine has accumulated particularly valuable practical experience, especially in the fields of civil protection, border security, and the protection of critical infrastructure. The Minister thanked the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, border protection services, and police institutions for their close cooperation and expressed hope that this process will not only continue but will also grow into even more ambitious joint initiatives.
The meeting also addressed support from Lithuania’s internal affairs system to Ukraine. Over the past year, this support exceeded EUR 1.1 million, and since the start of the war the total amount has reached approximately EUR 8.5 million. Taking into account Ukraine’s needs and Lithuania’s capabilities, the assistance provided includes anti-drone systems, protective equipment, demining equipment, and vehicles.
The Lithuanian Police continue to exchange experience with their Ukrainian counterparts, organize specialized demining training programs, and participate in planning new missions.
Initiatives by the Fire and Rescue Department and the Police Department also contribute to the support by organizing summer camps for the children of Ukrainian law enforcement officers. Two such camps were held in Lithuania last year.