Lithuania supports linking Ukraine to the European power system
“Ukraine is currently fighting for democracy and for the security of us all. We must help Ukraine in every way possible, including linking Ukraine to the European power system as soon as possible,” – this was Lithuania’s position expressed at the extraordinary Energy Council meeting held in Brussels on 28 February to discuss the EU’s crisis preparedness and measures to assist Ukraine following the Russian invasion.
Lithuania also stressed that in the face of the tense geopolitical situation in the region, there is still a possibility that Russia may take unilateral action against the Baltic power system. Lithuania is prepared for a variety of scenarios, but called on the Commission, the Baltic States and Poland to make a strong political commitment and to fully engage in accelerating the synchronisation of the Baltic States and preparation for the emergency connection of the Baltic system, should the need arise. Synchronisation of the Baltic States with Europe is crucial in order to end any dependence of the EU and its Member States on Russia in the energy sector.
At the extraordinary Energy Council meeting, Lithuania also expressed concern about the growing nuclear threat – the 15 nuclear reactors in operation in Ukraine could be attacked at any moment, the Russian armed forces have taken control of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, and radiation levels around Chernobyl are rising. Lithuania called on the International Atomic Energy Agency to take decisive action and to help Ukraine ensure proper implementation of its nuclear safeguards obligations by setting up a special working group.
Lithuania also emphasised that the Lukashenko regime is operating the unsafe first block of the Belarusian Astravets nuclear power plant, and is preparing to put the second block into operation under conditions of hostilities. The Belarusian nuclear power plant does not meet modern environmental and nuclear safety requirements, and therefore poses a significant nuclear threat to the entire region. The countries must join forces and demand that Belarus suspend all activities in both blocks until all safety requirements have been duly taken into account.