Petras Auštrevičius
Member of the European Parliament · Renew · LT
“Mr President, colleagues, let me move the following oral amendment: 'Welcomes the valuable talks between the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Poland and Ukraine, held in Warsaw on 3 July, which demonstrated the goodwill of both sides to resolve the existing tensions before they develop into a crisis; calls for an open and constructive dia…”
“Madam President, Commissioner, dear colleagues, Lukashenka is imprisoning teenagers for painting slogans such as 'death to the dictatorship' and 'long live Belarus'. 16-year-old Aliaksandra Pulinovich will face ten years in prison for this expression of art and opinion.”
“Madam President, it is about the recent crimes of aggression of Russia and a call for solidarity and support. Colleagues, the historical Ukrainian monastery complex on UNESCO World Heritage List, located in the very centre of Kyiv, Pechersk Lavra, was set on fire as a result of a massive Russian attack tonight.”
“Mr President, Madam Commissioner, dear colleagues, just imagine a Taliban representative sitting in a meeting room in Brussels lecturing on human and women's rights. This is not fiction, but an arising reality. Clearly, inviting the Taliban to Brussels amounts to partial legitimisation and recognition of the terrorist group.”
“Madam President, High Representative, dear colleagues, the communist regime in Cuba proudly called the country the 'island of freedom'. But just look at what this communist Paradise has become: the persecution of dissidents and opposition figures, overflowing prisons filled with political prisoners, and a catastrophic social and humanitar…”
“Gerbiama posėdžio Pirmininke, gerbiama aukštoji atstove užsienio politikai ir saugumui, gerbiami kolegos. Nors Europa jau prisiėmė ilgalaikius įsipareigojimus didinti savo investicijas į saugumą ir gynybą, JAV karinis buvimas Europoje netapo ir tikrai netaps perteklinis.”
The complete record
Every one of 54 lines we hold for Petras Auštrevičius, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 1 of 2.
“Mr President, colleagues, let me move the following oral amendment: 'Welcomes the valuable talks between the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Poland and Ukraine, held in Warsaw on 3 July, which demonstrated the goodwill of both sides to resolve the existing tensions before they develop into a crisis; calls for an open and constructive dialogue between the Polish and Ukrainian authorities, historians and civil societies in order to restore the indispensable trust between the two countries.' 3-0187-0000 (Parliament did not agree to put the oral amendment to the vote) 3-0188-0000 - Après le vote sur la proposition de résolution: 3-0189-0000”
“Let us not forget that Lukashenka is Putin's closest ally. Together, they act against Ukraine, Europe and their own dissenting citizenship. 3-0451-0000”
“Madam President, Commissioner, dear colleagues, Lukashenka is imprisoning teenagers for painting slogans such as 'death to the dictatorship' and 'long live Belarus'. 16-year-old Aliaksandra Pulinovich will face ten years in prison for this expression of art and opinion. Today, in Parliament, we welcomed Andrzej Poczobut, who has finally been released from prison. However, we must not forget that replacing political prisoners is a long-standing Belarusian tradition – while some are released, others, like Aliaksandra, take their place. Therefore, we must resist the temptation to barter the freedom of prisoners before accomplishing their important tasks in the pursuit of a free, democratic and European Belarus. Lukashenka's regime must feel the full impact of EU sanctions as soon as possible.”
“Madam President, it is about the recent crimes of aggression of Russia and a call for solidarity and support. Colleagues, the historical Ukrainian monastery complex on UNESCO World Heritage List, located in the very centre of Kyiv, Pechersk Lavra, was set on fire as a result of a massive Russian attack tonight. Russia launched against Ukraine more than 600 long‑range strike UAVs and 70 missiles last night. The Dormition Cathedral complex was seriously damaged, and a dozen of Ukrainians were killed and many more wounded tonight. The Metropolitan Epiphanius of Kyiv and All Ukraine, I quote, said, 'we saw another Russian crime against humanity, against history, against Christianity'. In full solidarity with Ukraine, we deplore this crime, and we call on the European Union to support Ukraine further on and impose further sanctions.”
“Proponents of gender‑based genocide, specifically Taliban representatives, should not be welcomed as partners in Brussels. 3-0590-0000”
“Mr President, Madam Commissioner, dear colleagues, just imagine a Taliban representative sitting in a meeting room in Brussels lecturing on human and women's rights. This is not fiction, but an arising reality. Clearly, inviting the Taliban to Brussels amounts to partial legitimisation and recognition of the terrorist group. This is an appalling act of injustice towards its victims and also a total U‑turn in the EU position. Given the level of so‑called legal reforms in Afghanistan in recent years – where amendments to the criminal code not only legalised violence against women and children, but also entrench social stratification and expand the application of the death penalty – the Taliban's arrival in Brussels is simply incomprehensible in any sane mind.”
“The EU must abandon the long standing policy of appeasement towards the regime and adopt a critical political stance, demanding respect for fundamental human freedoms and guarantees for basic human rights. Only then will Cuba truly become an island of free people. 2-0432-0000”
“Madam President, High Representative, dear colleagues, the communist regime in Cuba proudly called the country the 'island of freedom'. But just look at what this communist Paradise has become: the persecution of dissidents and opposition figures, overflowing prisons filled with political prisoners, and a catastrophic social and humanitarian situation, with only 3 % of the population having full access to medication. Public dissatisfaction with the Cuban regime has reached a peak. Cuba, a former Soviet ally that became a base for exporting communism to Latin America and Africa, has clearly reached the end of the road. The crumbling regime is now trying to cling on to increasing repression and pressure against voices of protest.”
“Europos Sąjunga gali ir turi dėti maksimalias pastangas, siekdama išlaikyti strateginį JAV karinį buvimą Europoje, ypač ties rytinėmis sienomis, kur dronų, kibernetinių atakų ir nelegalios migracijos grėsmės pačios didžiausios. Kviečiu Europos Sąjungą ir valstybes nares rasti būdus Europos Sąjungai ir JAV lygiavertei partnerystei stiprinti. 2-0394-0000”
“Gerbiama posėdžio Pirmininke, gerbiama aukštoji atstove užsienio politikai ir saugumui, gerbiami kolegos. Nors Europa jau prisiėmė ilgalaikius įsipareigojimus didinti savo investicijas į saugumą ir gynybą, JAV karinis buvimas Europoje netapo ir tikrai netaps perteklinis. Teroristinis Kremliaus režimas pripažįsta ir supranta tik vieną kalbą, t. y. jėgą ir stiprumą. Todėl Europos Sąjungos teritorijoje, ypač Europos Sąjungos rytiniame flange, karinių pajėgų ir karinės technikos tiesiog negali mažėti. Pastaruoju metu Rusija stiprina informacinių atakų, vykdomų prieš ypač Baltijos valstybes, frontą, taip, tikėtina, ruošdama dirvą naujoms ir labai pavojingoms provokacijoms.”
“Sveikinu Europos Komisijos sprendimą atšaukti numatytą finansavimą Venecijos bienalei, kviečiu Europos Sąjungos valstybes nares kartu stabdyti paramą tiems, kurie yra susitepę krauju ir šiandien bando plauti savo mundurą. 3-0429-0000”
“Gerbiama Pirmininke, komisare, kolegos. Pasinaudodama sportu ir kultūra, teroristinė Rusija siekia dar labiau suskaldyti tarptautinę bendruomenę. Rusija žūtbūt nori kuo greičiau sugrįžti į svarbiausius pasaulio kultūros ir sporto renginius. Nuo senų laikų žinoma Potiomkino strategija, kai visuomenė mulkinama ir jai bandoma pateikti netikrą gražų fasadinį paveikslėlį, tęsiama toliau. Man, kaip ir daugeliui jūsų, gėda, kad Tarptautinis olimpinis ir paralimpinis komitetai, kai kurios tarptautinės sporto federacijos, taip pat tokie svarbūs meno renginiai kaip Venecijos meno bienalė, imasi flirtuoti su teroristine valstybe – Rusija. Taip besielgiančios sporto organizacijos, meno institucijos atvirai kolaboruoja su karinę agresiją tęsiančia Rusija ir Baltarusija.”
“Madam President, colleagues, I wish to make a proposal to extend paragraph 11 with the following amendment: 'Strongly deplores the Hungarian Government's continued obstruction of EU support for Ukraine, as well as the Slovak Government's announced decision to cut off emergency electricity supplies to Ukraine.' 1-0055-0000 (Parliament did not agree to put the oral amendment to the vote) 1-0056-0000”
“This is the response of European civilisation to autocracy and imperial aggression. Let us not waver. Let us not falter. Let us not lose hope. At the same time, the Hungarian Government's open threats towards Ukraine and its obstruction of EU policy stand in stark contradiction to European values. It is unjustifiable and unacceptable. The memory of Soviet tanks rolling through Budapest in 1956 reminds us of what Russia sought to impose on Kyiv four years ago. Historical blindness carries grave consequences. Slava Ukraini! 1-0033-0000”
“Madam President, Commissioners, colleagues, the brutal war that Russia launched against Ukraine has been going on for 12 years – spanning a third term of the European Parliament. In its failed attempt to seize Ukraine in three days, Russia suffered a historic defeat: Ukraine stood firm, turned decisively towards the West, and in doing so transformed not only itself, but Europe as well – profoundly and, I hope, irreversibly. Russia's atrocious crimes against a sovereign neighbour, against humanity and international law cannot be erased, not even by a so-called peace agreement. To war crimes committed in Bucha, Irpin and elsewhere the principle of immunity cannot be applied. Understanding, solidarity and steadfast support for Ukraine defined today's Europe. They affirm our core principles not merely in words, but in action.”
“The EU will continue to use its direct channels to Iran to pass these messages, as well as to safeguard our other critical interests. At the same time, we stand ready to take further measures to pressure authorities as the situation evolves. Today and every day, we confirm our full solidarity with the Iranian people, and we will spare no effort in defending their legitimate aspirations for freedom, dignity and a better life. 3-0597-0000”
“Because accountability is essential, we particularly supported the renewal of the mandates of the UN international fact-finding mission and the UN Special Rapporteur on Iran, with an expanded scope to investigate the most recent tragic events. We are also stepping up our support to Iranian civil society organisations that defend human rights. Our message is clear and unwavering. The use of violence against civilians exercising their fundamental rights to suppress internal dissent will be met by a strong EU response. Every Iranian must have their fundamental rights ensured, protected and respected. Discrimination against women and minorities must end. All those arbitrarily detained for peaceful protests, dissent or advocacy must be released without delay.”
“The European Union responded swiftly and displayed great unity against the unprecedented level of violence by Iranian security forces against peaceful protesters. On 29 January, the Foreign Affairs Council reached a political agreement to list the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation. This sends a clear message: there can be no impunity for the brutal repression of peaceful demonstrations. The EU has also imposed additional sanctions on individuals and entities responsible for the repression and internet censorship, including the Minister of Interior and members of the IRGC. This approach will continue as long as necessary. The EU has also supported the holding of a special session of the United Nations Human Rights Council.”
“Since 2011, we have sanctions in place to target those responsible for serious human rights violations in Iran, which have, over the years, been significantly reinforced. Both publicly and through diplomatic channels, we have consistently urged the Iranian authorities to fully comply with their obligations under international law, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, to both of which Iran is a party. Freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, as well as unrestricted access to communication and information, are not negotiable nor subject to interpretation. Against this backdrop, the crackdown on the recent nationwide protest has been shocking and unacceptable.”
“The situation of women and girls who continue to face systematic discrimination also deserves urgent attention. The continued arbitrary detention of lawyers, journalists and human rights defenders is a very disturbing trend. This includes the arrest and the new sentencing to Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi. In addition, Iranian state bodies conducted transnational repression against journalists and activists abroad, including on European soil, adding to a very grim and unacceptable picture. Widespread discrimination and restrictions against persons belonging to ethnic and religious minorities persist and are unacceptable. Finally, Iran's practice of arbitrarily detaining EU nationals is very concerning. Our strong commitment to human rights in Iran did not begin today.”
“And I believe it will be a future based on freedom, democracy and self-determination. Free Iran. 3-0595-0000 (End of catch-the-eye procedure) 3-0596-0000 Marta Kos, Member of the Commission. – Mr President, honourable Members of the European Parliament, the human rights situation in Iran has been deeply worrying for years, with already a serious aggravation throughout 2025 before the recent appalling wave of repression. Of particular concern has been the huge increase in the number of executions – at least 1 500 in 2025. The EU has a strong, principled and long-standing opposition to the death penalty in all circumstances, but we are even more alarmed in this case, because executions have been increasingly used as a means of suppressing internal dissent.”
“Mr President, the radical mullahs' regime in Iran continues to oppress its own citizens, creating unbearable living conditions and spreading violence. The regime is guilty of ruthless discrimination against women, the systematic persecution of religious communities, restrictions on freedom of speech and access to the internet, torture, and the widespread use of the death penalty. These are Tehran's true policies. Those responsible for the regime's repression must face the punishment they deserve. They cannot be unpunished. For now, this must come from outside. The European Union must increase its use of sanctions and other restrictions and measures. Colleagues, we have to stop listening to mullahs, and listen better to people, because the future of Iran lies in the hands of its people.”
“Ką valdantieji daro Lietuvoje su visuomeniniu transliuotoju, aš manau, mes visi matome, nepriklausomi ekspertai patvirtina. Todėl jeigu jūs turite genialių pasiūlymų, kaip keisti Europos Parlamento procedūras, prašau pateikite. Bet kažkaip tai mes nematome tų konstruktyvių pasiūlymų iš jūsų pusės. 3-0389-0000”
“– Taip, gerbiamas kolega Petrai, kodėl jūs nesiūlote, kad būtų tvarka dėl personalijų keičiama ir Europos Parlamente skiriant ir atleidžiant pareigūnus? Juk šiandien galioja slaptas balsavimas ir paprasta balsų dauguma. Tai pasiūlykite ir čia, kad norint atleisti pareigūną ar jį paskirti, kad būtų kvorumas... reikalavimas dviejų trečdalių visų europarlamentarų. Kodėl jūs taikote dvigubus standartus? Ar čia demokratijos nėra Europos Parlamente? Jūs gi valdančioje daugumoje. Siūlykite pataisas. 3-0387-0000 Petras Auštrevičius (Renew), atsakymas į pakėlus mėlynąją kortelę pateiktą klausimą. – Ponas Gražuli, nepainiokite Europos Parlamento, Lietuvos visuomeninio transliuotojo. Jūs mokate demagogiškai įvelti į nereikalingas ir beprasmes diskusijas. Čia jau esate nepralenkiamas meistras.”
“– You talked, dear colleague, about the amendments, and talking about these amendments, why do you think there is so much importance put on those where it goes about freezing the financial assets in this? 3-0385-0000 Petras Auštrevičius (Renew), blue-card answer. – Thank you, colleague, for indeed a very current question. You know that the Lithuanian economy is already in the fifth or sixth year of economic growth. There is no fiscal reason to, you know, limit the budget of the public broadcaster. The reason is a political one: you freeze financing, you put some ceilings, you give a very clear political message. So that's why I would call it a kind of political revenge against those who broadcast and support democracy in the country. 3-0386-0000 Petras Gražulis (ESN), pakėlus mėlynąją kortelę pateiktas klausimas.”
“Europos Komisija jau įspėjo Lietuvos valdančiuosius apie gresiančią žalą demokratijai ir galimas pasekmes. Šiandien Europos Parlamento stiprus palaikymas yra būtinas kaip niekada, kad Lietuvos visuomeninis transliuotojas išliktų nepriklausomas, politiškai neužvaldytas ir kad Lietuva nenusuktų iš demokratijos kelio Orbano ar Fico vyriausybių pramintais klystkeliais. Neprarandu vilties, kad Lietuvos valdančioji koalicija, išgirdusi ir supratusi Europos Parlamento nuomonę, jos neignoruos ir atsisakys labai jau pragaištingų ketinimų. (Kalbėtojas sutiko atsakyti į kelis mėlynosios kortelės klausimus) 3-0384-0000 Lukas Sieper (NI), blue-card question.”
“Secondly, I would like to emphasise the so-needed and increasingly effective activities of the fully-fledged Security and Defence Committee of this Parliament. 2-0488-0000”
“Mr President, colleagues, in light of the significantly deteriorating security environment, the European Union has no alternative but to increase its defence capacity and effective deterrence policy. While I am very pleased to see the numerous political commitments made to boost European defence capacity, I am still looking forward to their full and timely implementation. In the face of existing and emerging security threats, it is of the utmost importance to develop modern warfare capacities, using innovative technologies and AI solutions, and to support future technological developments. In 2025, we observed, at least from my point of view, two positive trends. Firstly, we are cooperating with and learning from Ukraine more.”
“The Iranian people, not Mullahs, nor the former Shah family, have the right for political change and self-determination. 2-0350-0000”
“Mr President, dear High Representative, colleagues, for five decades, Iran has been ruled by religious fanaticism. During this time, the Mullahs' regime has engaged in the endless repression of internal opponents and Iranians demanding change. It has also supported international terrorism and partnered with totalitarian regimes. Ayatollah Khamenei's vision for Iran has resulted in endless death sentences, a crackdown on women's rights, a deteriorating quality of life, and internal isolation. Ayatollah's Iran offers no future. The EU has been unjustifiably slow to adopt a firm political stance on Iran. The Iranian people must feel the impact of economic sanctions as soon as possible. Those responsible for the repression must be persecuted and punished.”
“Justice demands that all Russian and allied leaders and officials who initiated and enabled the war against Ukraine and its people be held accountable. This must serve as a lesson for the future. The war in Ukraine has affected the whole of Europe. We have all experienced the hardships of war and we continue to witness Russia's ongoing war crimes against humanity every day. While the financial, humanitarian and military aid provided is crucial, I really regret that the European Union has missed the opportunity to demonstrate its role as a global player by not forcing Russia, the aggressor state, to sit down at the negotiations table. History is not yet over. Let us strengthen Europe's and Ukraine's security, because Europe will never be safe without a defended and victorious Ukraine. 3-0023-0000”
“Mr President, Minister, Commissioner, dear colleagues, the Russian leadership aims to destroy and subjugate Ukraine, removing it from the political map of Europe. The Kremlin is pursuing these aims through military aggression and by imposing preconditions in various negotiations. No other alternatives are seen from Moscow. We must understand that Russia's aggressive intentions also affect the European security architecture, seeking to create great security zones which are unacceptable and definitely dangerous. A peace agreement must not only end the war against Ukraine, but also put an end to Russia's hybrid war against EU countries and their partners. This undeclared hybrid war must end with Russia making a clear commitment and accepting accountability for its actions.”
“The outcome of this war determines Europe's future security architecture. Europe must play a full role in peace negotiations on Ukraine because it's our common future that is being decided right now. 3-0283-0000”
“Mr President, Commissioner, Council representative, colleagues, the de facto leader of the terrorist Russian state, Vladimir Putin, has stated that wherever a Russian soldier sets foot, it becomes Russian territory. Indeed, Russian imperialism has become the enemy of civilised Europe. Russia continues to demand Ukrainian capitulation as a condition for any negotiations. For years, we have witnessed the occupation of Ukrainian territories and war crimes, including referendums held in temporarily occupied territories, followed by their illegal incorporation into the Russian constitution. This is Russian – or more precisely Soviet – logic and plan for the subjugation of neighbouring nations. We must do everything we can to ensure that President Zelenskyy's peace plan is not dismissed, and that the 'rule of the strong' is not imposed again.”
“This year must see the start of accession negotiations with Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova, turning our promises into action. This will practically illustrate our response to building a secure and united Europe. 2-0233-0000”
“Mr President, Commissioner, colleagues, significant geopolitical shifts and security threats in Europe and around the world must be harnessed to unify Europe, strengthen the European project and bolster the European Union's standing as a geopolitical actor. Our shared vision for Europe encompasses political unity, securing of the continent, economic growth and a competitive single market. This requires a willingness and readiness to enlarge, and the determination to implement internal EU reforms. Europe can no longer afford to delay making the necessary decisions. We must identify the optimal time to implement needed internal reforms, so that, by integrating new members, we can collectively become stronger and more effective.”
“I quote: 'Expresses its full solidarity with Moldova as well as with Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Finland, Romania, Estonia and all other Member States exposed to Russia’s direct threats, military provocations and acts of hybrid warfare; considers that the deliberate disruption, by Russian agents, of the EU’s air traffic, targeting Europe’s military critical services and infrastructure, and of the functioning of the political institutions of the EU and the Member States using UAVs is escalatory, risks miscalculation, endangers lives, constitutes a serious violation of applicable international norms and poses a serious threat to EU citizens and to peace and security in Europe'. 4-0163-0000 (Parliament agreed to put the oral amendment to the vote) 4-0164-0000 – Before the vote on paragraph 5: 4-0165-0000”
“Madam President, colleagues, on behalf of Renew Europe, I would like to propose an oral amendment to paragraph one. The aim is to include two Member States, namely Lithuania and Latvia, among the countries to which we express full solidarity. This is to correct a technical mistake, not a political one. I read the text of paragraph one with the amendment.”
“We must cut the regime from the modern technologies and innovations that are used for oppression. Let's agree that only regime change can bring stability to Iran and the region. Let us support the constructive opposition in Iran and their tireless efforts to fight the oppressive regime. 3-0483-0000”
“Madam President, Commissioner, Minister, colleagues, the Tehran regime has deceived the West, including the European Union, by misleading and pretending to be a partner in negotiations regarding its nuclear program. Last month, Khamenei acknowledged that the uranium enrichment activities began 30 years ago. We must remember that without the initial revelations of the MEK and NCRI, the regime would likely have continued with the nuclear weapons programme and have had those weapons by now. The Iranian people are tired of the mullahs' regime, which has become an agent of religious fanaticism, the suppression of women, the persecution and killing of opponents, and international terrorism. We must increase political and economic pressure on Tehran.”
“In order to effectively integrate drones and anti-drone technology into European security and defence, I call on European institutions to establish a regulatory framework that defines safety standards for civil aviation and critical infrastructure in the context of these new technologies. 3-0104-0000”
“Madam President, Commissioner, Minister, colleagues, Europe cannot allow itself to become a testing ground for Russian hybrid attacks, drones and provocations that undermine our security and economy and spread fear and terror among our population. We must not surrender our democratic space to those who encroach upon it. We must act decisively and in unity. Let's recognise that we are lagging far behind in developing reliable defences against drones. We must make the most of Ukraine's experience and establish an anti-drone system through joint coordinated action now. We should not concern ourselves with questions about whose drones are disrupting European airspace and endangering aviation. If these drones are not ours, we must treat them as hostile and immediately destroy them.”
“Madam President, dear colleagues, let me move the following oral amendment based on factual events and happenings: 'Welcomes the European Court of Human Rights judgment of 9 July 2025 in the case of Ukraine and the Netherlands v. Russia, which held Russia responsible for widespread and flagrant human rights abuses in Ukraine – including the downing of MH17, torture, the use of rape as a weapon of war, summary executions, unlawful and arbitrary detentions, and the organised removal and adoption of children in Russia.' 2-0186-0000 (Parliament agreed to put the oral amendment to the vote) 2-0187-0000”
“We must look into a long, be ready to face any future challenges to the security and prosperity of our citizens in the long term, when our bold actions will bear fruit, and seize the opportunity to improve the efficiency of EU decision-making and policy implementation. So let's look at the broader picture. 4-0063-0000”
“Mr President, Commissioner, dear colleagues, history has shown us the value of European unification and the importance of preparing EU institutions to address emerging challenges. Although managing a union of 30 or more members may seem challenging, these are the same concerns we had 20 years ago, prior to the big bang enlargement. However, improving the EU's institutional functioning and political processes cannot be postponed or made dependent on enlargement, budgeting or other issues. Colleagues, I find today's debate, with the extreme focus on enlargement only, a bit misleading. It's too narrow. Let's look broader, face all the challenges we have.”
“But we cannot submit to Russia's provocations, such as calls for NATO forces to withdraw from the Baltic states or demands regarding Ukraine's surrender. Russia and its allies and enablers are creating security chaos and challenges. That's why we are far from all the provocations we might see. And NATO's response must be proportionate and pre‑emptive. Clearly, NATO members in Europe must make a significant defence commitment and do so immediately. All EU Member States must be creators of security, but not only consumers. My main anticipation and call for the NATO summit in The Hague is that it will demonstrate our unity and set ambitious actions to ensure our security and deter any further provocations by Russia or its followers. 3-0035-0000”
“Madam President, dear Kaja – I wish you a happy birthday, and I wish you strength, dear colleagues, clearly the forthcoming NATO summit in The Hague will not be a mere celebratory meeting. It must address issues of collective security of the utmost importance. We must ensure the safety and unconditional security of our societies and population. Security comes at a price, but peace is priceless. Although NATO's decision in 2014 to increase defence spending to 2 % is not yet fully implemented by a third of members, it is insufficient today. A new benchmark of 5 % for defence spending is urgently needed in order to bolster allies' defence capabilities. NATO is a defence and security alliance that poses no threat to peaceful neighbours.”
“Ensuring the security of our citizens cannot be subject to any reservations and therefore Member States must agree on how to coordinate national military planning and procurement in a realistic and more coordinated way, optimising the total cost of defence. 2-0196-0000”
“Madam President, Madam High Representative, dear colleagues, more than ever before, Europeans have clearly and highly rightly made the EU's foreign and security policy an existential priority, making it a central theme in the last European Parliament elections. We must respect this and respond without undue delay. Let us not forget that those who have challenged our way of life have not changed and intend to continue their destructive actions. Above all, the European Union must strengthen its foreign policy, security and defence instruments and its financial capacity to implement them. It is clear that the sanctions imposed must be implemented at the level of the Union and have real leverage on third countries that violate United Nations or EU values.”
“Standardisation of weapons and military equipment, mobilisation of financial resources for their innovation, and speedy production and further development of military mobility and capabilities – these are the most important things now. For the European defence community should involve our partners from the very beginning, especially candidate countries like Ukraine. Close cooperation in this area will undoubtedly benefit all participant countries and, most importantly, our citizens. 2-0397-0000”