Speaker John Boehner completed a three-day tour of Lithuania on Monday, during which the Ohio Republican stressed the nation’s commitment to countering Russia’s growing strength and political influence.
The trip comes as Russia has flexed its muscles by annexing Crimea and tightly controlling access to energy supplies. But Boehner stressed during meetings with senior Lithuanian officials that Congress is committed to countering Russian President Vladimir Putin’s strength through expanded trade, energy independence and defense assistance to Ukraine.
Lawmakers met with President Dalia Grybauskaitė in the presidential palace to discuss regional security issues and trade, following a key vote last week where Congress granted President Barack Obama the power to expedite congressional approval of trade deals.
“Whether it’s arming Ukraine or declaring energy independence, Lithuania sets an example for the region, and frankly, the world,” Boehner said at a press conference. “The American people recognize that this threat demands decisive leadership and action. That’s why the Congress of the United States is working to ensure that tangible assistance is provided not only to Lithuania, but to all of our partners in the region.”
The trip coincided with the 25th anniversary of Lithuania’s independence.
The trip also included a visit to the Port of Klaipeda to see a newly constructed liquefied natural gas terminal — a first for the region.