Lithuania invited by US to join Strait of Hormuz escort coalition

(Central News Agency reporter You Yaoru, Vilnius, 30th exclusive report) Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda announced today that the country has received an invitation from the United States to join an international coalition aimed at restoring shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The relevant proposal will be submitted to the National Defence Council for discussion.

According to a report by Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT), Nausėda stated at today's press conference that Lithuania plans to participate in the US-led maritime security operation, but formal participation in the mission still requires parliamentary authorization.

According to the report, Nausėda said: "We are united and clearly understand that we should not only demand and receive, but also contribute."

He emphasized that Iran, which is blocking the Strait of Hormuz, is a country that actively supports Russia in the Russia-Ukraine war.

Nausėda stated: "Precisely for this reason, war or actions against that country are important to us because it concerns regional stability and security. Therefore, I believe we should indeed consider the US proposal very responsibly and unitedly."

The Wall Street Journal reported on the 29th, citing an internal US State Department cable, that this proposed coalition, named "Maritime Freedom Construct," will share information, coordinate diplomatically, and assist in enforcing sanctions to restore commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

The report pointed out that the coalition will be led by the United States and has been lobbying various countries to participate through diplomatic channels. (Editor: Chen Yanjun) 1150430