Lithuanian, British foreign ministers discuss grain exports from Odessa

VILNIUS – The Lithuanian and British foreign ministers discussed Ukraine's grain exports through the Black Sea port of Odessa and signed a declaration on bilateral cooperation during their meeting in London on Monday. 

Gabrielius Landsbergis and Elizabeth Truss "discussed the need to mobilize efforts and partners, to find a way to unblock the port of Odessa as soon as possible, and to ensure the safety of Ukrainian grain exports to nations on the brink of famine," the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry said in a press release. 

"The meeting focused on issues pertaining to a response to Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine, the provision of support for Ukraine, strengthening NATO’s eastern flank and bilateral cooperation," it said.

Landsbergis underlined the need for continued pressure on Russia to end its military aggression against Ukraine.

"Today, Ukraine is defending Europe against Russia's threat," he said. "Cities are being destroyed and people are being killed every day in Ukraine."

"The UK has demonstrated exceptional leadership, condemning the Kremlin's aggression, providing military, humanitarian and financial support for Ukraine, and imposing unprecedented sanctions." 

Lithuania's top diplomat also thanked his British counterpart for bolstering NATO's eastern flank. 

"The deployment of additional British troops in the region contributes to NATO's deterrence and defense. We are grateful to the United Kingdom for its active participation and leadership in ensuring the security of the Baltic region," Landsbergis said in the press release.

"In addition, the Standing Joint Force Headquarters is now operating across a temporary location in Lithuania," he said. "This recent deployment is the latest and very important example of the country's outstanding leadership."