White House: Biden to travel to Britain, Lithuania, Finland from July 9

  • Medium Text

U.S. President Joe Biden arrves in New York

Sign up here.

Reporting by Jeff Mason; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Annual haj pilgrimage in Mecca

World Chevron

More than 1,000 die in haj amid scorching temperatures.

More than 1,000 people died during haj this year, according to a Reuters tally, as extreme heat hammered the nearly two million who took part in the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca.

A view shows the headquarters of Russia's Ministry of Defence in Moscow

presidential visits to lithuania

Concerns grow over racism within artificial intelligence

presidential visits to lithuania

Eddie Izzard opens up about life, identity and performing ‘Hamlet’

presidential visits to lithuania

Protesters rally outside London court as Assange faces extradition to U.S.

presidential visits to lithuania

Desperate search for missing Florida woman who moved to Spain underway

presidential visits to lithuania

Biden, Trump speak out as U.S. political fallout grows from Navalny's death

presidential visits to lithuania

‘We want her back safe': Florida woman missing in Spain

presidential visits to lithuania

Biden: 'No doubt' Putin is responsible for Navalny's death

presidential visits to lithuania

House expected not to consider Senate’s foreign aid package

presidential visits to lithuania

People around the world send Valentine’s Day mail to ‘Sweetheart City’

presidential visits to lithuania

U.S. begins retaliatory strikes in Iraq and Syria as slain soldiers arrive home

presidential visits to lithuania

How Biden decided on military targets for retaliatory strikes

presidential visits to lithuania

This eye surgeon is on a mission to cure blindness in South Sudan

presidential visits to lithuania

Travel warnings issued for Jamaica and Bahamas amid growing violence

presidential visits to lithuania

Mexico sues American gun manufacturers after claiming they aid drug cartels

presidential visits to lithuania

China cites U.S. demand as a top concern ahead of talks on fentanyl smuggling

presidential visits to lithuania

Doomsday Clock stays at 90 seconds to midnight for second straight year

presidential visits to lithuania

Pentagon identifies Navy SEALs lost off coast of Somalia

presidential visits to lithuania

U.S. and Saudi Arabia push for a Gaza peace pact with Israel

presidential visits to lithuania

U.S. urges Americans in Colombia to avoid dating apps after 8 deaths

presidential visits to lithuania

'We have very little information': Parents of American kidnapped by Hamas

President biden meets the lithuanian president ahead of nato summit.

President Joe Biden used his meeting with President Gitanas Nausėda of Lithuania to reaffirm U.S. commitment to NATO ahead of the alliance's summit in Vilnius. July 11, 2023

Best of NBC News

presidential visits to lithuania

Meet the Press

Biden campaign co-chair says he doesn't know why the president is losing latino voters.

presidential visits to lithuania

June 23 — Biden Campaign Co-Chair Mitch Landrieu and Gov. Kristi Noem

presidential visits to lithuania

Trump doesn’t need ‘to get personal’ with Biden during debate, says GOP Gov. Kristi Noem

presidential visits to lithuania

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem says she hasn't been formally vetted to be Trump's vice president

presidential visits to lithuania

Gov. Noem: ‘I’m not going to talk about’ redacted book passage on Kim Jong Un

presidential visits to lithuania

Gov. Kristi Noem says there can’t be a ‘blanket approach’ to Jan. 6 pardons: Full interview

Mobile Menu Overlay

The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

Remarks by President   Biden and President Gitanas Nausėda of Lithuania Before Bilateral Meeting | Vilnius,   Lithuania

Presidential Palace Vilnius, Lithuania

10:42 A.M. EEST   PRESIDENT NAUSĖDA:  (In progress.)  And, first of all, I would like to remind you that we are celebrating one and — 100 years of our establishment of our diplomatic relations.  Also, our cooperation recently is improving all the time.   But I would like also to thank for the non-recognition policy of the United States regarding the occupation of Lithuania in the Soviet Union.  It was very persistent policy.  It helped us — our spirit, moral spirit high.  And I think this is very important to remember, too.   The situation in our region is unfortunately deteriorating.  And you see what is happening around us.  And we see Belarus just swallowed into the Russian Federation, and we see that Belarus is becoming additional threat, additional factor of insecurity in the region.   So this is the reason why we ask the NATO — we ask our strongest Ally, United States — to pay a consistent atten- — attention to the security of our region.    And I think the NATO Summit, which takes place in Vilnius, in absolutely near proximity to adversary countries — this is symbolic event — symbolic.  But also, at the same time, this is a great opportunity to take the bold decisions, and we expect that they will be done.   This is very important to mention that we already have this Vilnius meeting as historical one, even before it started, because the membership of Sweden is already the — on the table.  And I think we will welcome the 32nd member of NATO very soon.   We have regional defense plans approved, and now it’s important that they become executable by the end of this year, with pre-positioning, with assigned forces.   We are probably — Lithuania is one of the most enthusiastic supporters of transatlantic bond in Europe — in European Union because we think that your participation, your attention is extremely important in this field of geopolitical uncertainty.    And at the same time, Lithuania is intending to buy — to acquire military equipment from United States.  And I would like to mention Black Hawks.  Also, we intend to buy HIMARS, JLTVs — Oshkosh.  And all this military equipment helps us to modernize our military forces.   At the same time, we are closely cooperating with Germany.  And recently, the very good decision was announced by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius to scale up the forward presence of eFP country Germany in Lithuania up to brigade size on a permanent basis.  So, I think it would be very positive to welcome this decision and welcome the engagement of all eFP countries in the region to increase the forward presence in our — in our region.   So, Mr. President, thank you so much for your participation in our NATO Summit.  I’m looking forward to closely cooperating with you and with our colleagues during these two days.    I’m looking forward to — to be able to listen to your speech tomorrow in Vilnius University.  It will be another historical moment for Lithuania.    And all the Lithuanian people greet you so warmly.  Even Vilnius — you see it’s a little bit empty right now, but this is because of security restrictions and some people decided to leave the city just to — to avoid some inconveniences.  But, you know, in our hearts — from bottom of our hearts, we welcome your visit, we welcome your arrival, and we are looking forward to cooperate with United States in the future.   PRESIDENT BIDEN:  Well, Mr. President, thank you for the welcome and thank your team as well.    You know, it’s great to be back in Vilnius.  I was here in 2014 as vice president shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine the first time and, at the time, talked about what I thought Russia was likely to continue to do.  Some people were somewhat skeptical of my judgment at the time and — but, unfortunately, it turned out to be accurate.   And the United States is here today to reaffirm our commitment to NATO but also to Vilnius.  Look, we — we go back a long way.  And the — when — we — we’re committed to Lithuania and to the Baltics and to NATO.   I remember — you may recall when we were having the debate in the United States Senate about enlarging NATO, and I was arguing very strongly that the Baltics should all be a part of NATO.  And you’ve been very, very added value.   And our pledge to be with you has not wavered.  It didn’t take us long to get thousands of troops here when Russia invaded the second time.  We’ll be able to — you can be assured that you’re going to have all that you need.   We have the Secretary of Defense with us today.  We can send him alone; he’s enough.  (Laughter.)  But — but all kidding aside, we —   And, look, as I’ve said before: We take, NATO takes, all of us take Article 5 literally.  One inch of NATO territory means we’re all — we’re all in a war together against whomever is violating that space, and we’re going to defend every inch of it.   And I want to thank you, Mr. President, for hosting this historic summit at an important time: the first time that NATO leaders will meet with 31 together, and looking forward to meeting very soon with 32 members with the addition of Sweden.   The leader of Sweden was just in my Oval Office not long ago, and we were hoping this would occur when it did.  And I’m confident we’ll get that done today.   And in the coming days, we’re also going to discuss a range of issues — how to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank and modernize NATO’s deterrence and defense capabilities.  And we’re going to be doing it in a place of — where those — those efforts truly matter every single, solitary day.  And we’re also going to discuss our support for the people of Ukraine.  And I want to thank you and — for your partnership and leadership as we take on this challenge together.    So, I look forward to our conversation today and to continuing to stand with you and all the people of Lithuania for a simple reason: shared values.  We have the same value set.  It’s important.  That’s what NATO is all about.  That’s what transatlantic alliance is about.   And as you probably heard, I am a very strong supporter of the transatlantic alliance.  I’ve learned that nothing happens here that doesn’t affect us.  So, we’re all in.    We’re looking forward to today.  Thank you.   PRESIDENT NAUSĖDA:  Thank you.   10:50 A.M. EEST

Stay Connected

We'll be in touch with the latest information on how President Biden and his administration are working for the American people, as well as ways you can get involved and help our country build back better.

Opt in to send and receive text messages from President Biden.

presidential visits to lithuania

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy makes surprise visit to Lithuania to discuss war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made an unannounced visit to Lithuania, a key ally of Kyiv as it battles Russia’s invasion .

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said in a statement he was welcoming Zelenskyy to his country, where the two leaders would discuss the war and Ukrainian “integration into the EU and NATO.”

Zelenksy said the issue of “cooperation on electronic warfare and drones” would also be on the agenda, following sustained Russian air strikes on Ukraine in what has been a bloody start to the new year.

Support for Ukraine in the Baltics has remained resolute while it has wavered in Washington. Ukraine in December received its last package of military aid from the United States until a divided Congress approves the Biden administration’s funding request, which seeks to steel Ukraine as it prepares to enter its third year of war.

Zelenskyy said that what his country is “sorely lacking” is modern air defence systems. Speaking in Vilnius during a press conference with Nauseda, Zelenskyy said “regarding the thing that as of today we are unable to produce short-term together with our partners is modern air defence systems. This is sorely lacking.”

  • Complete coverage of the war in Ukraine

“I think you’ve seen, and journalists know the details, that in the last days of December, the ‘holiday’ days for us, and in the first days of January, Russia attacked civilian infrastructure, people, kindergartens, schools, electricity. In total, there were 500 missile and drone strikes. We were able to repel an average of 70 per cent of these attacks. Unfortunately, there were casualties. My condolences to those who lost their loved ones,” Zelenskyy said.

“That is why we should fight this enemy with technology until we drive them out of our land and the war is over.”

Zelenskyy arrived Wednesday at the airport in Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, on a plane bearing the Ukrainian coat of arms. He will then visit the other two Baltic states, Latvia and Estonia, he said on Telegram, without giving a timeline.

The Ukrainian president last visited Lithuania in July 2023 to attend the annual NATO summit , where he pushed for a clear path for his country to join the alliance and a timeline for its accession.

But despite Zelenskyy’s urgency and optimism, US President Joe Biden told CNN ahead of the summit that Ukraine could not be admitted to NATO while war was raging on its territory.

Ukraine did, however, secure a streamlined path to future membership. NATO Secretary Jens Stoltenberg said the bloc had changed Ukraine’s membership path “from a two-step process to a one-step process,” by removing the Membership Action Plan – a burdensome program of economic, defence and security reforms other recently admitted countries had to go through before joining the bloc.

Zelenskyy received a hero’s welcome from the Lithuanian public when he gave a speech in Lukiskes Square during the summit. Addressing thousands on a stage decked out with the blue and yellow of the Ukrainian flag, Zelenskyy said that “Ukraine will make NATO stronger.”

Lithuania was the first country to leave the Soviet Union, splitting from the bloc in March 1990. Lukiskes Square once featured a huge state of Lenin – and large crowds gathered to celebrate its removal in 1991. Many in the country retain deep historical resentment towards Russia, which has fuelled its staunch support for Ukraine.

Arriving in Vilnius Wednesday, Zelenskyy once again expressed his “gratitude” towards Lithuania. Writing on X, he thanked his ally for its “uncompromising support for Ukraine since 2014 and especially now, during Russia’s full-scale aggression.”

According to the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, which monitors and ranks countries’ financial support for Ukraine, Lithuania has committed around 1.4 per cent of its GDP in aid for Ukraine – the second-highest amount among Kyiv’s allies, behind only Norway.

Yulia Kesaieva contributed to this report.

CTVNews.ca Top Stories

presidential visits to lithuania

'I feel like I have my life again': Canadian woman describes her freedom from a life controlled by OCD

What set Rima Youssef on the path to freedom, she says, was a novel treatment — a form of brain surgery — to shut down the overactive thoughts and compulsions using focused ultrasound.

A woman is accused of attempting to drown a 3-year-old Muslim child in possible hate crime incident

A woman in Texas has been charged with attempted capital murder and injury to a child after trying to drown a three-year-old child at an apartment complex pool and making racial statements, according to police.

Why Mount Rainier is the U.S. volcano keeping scientists up at night

The snowcapped peak of Mount Rainier, which towers 4.3 kilometres (2.7 miles) above sea level in Washington state, has not produced a significant volcanic eruption in the past 1,000 years. Yet, more than Hawaii’s bubbling lava fields or Yellowstone’s sprawling supervolcano, it’s Mount Rainier that has many U.S. volcanologists worried.

Conservative surge combined with ballot confusion could crack a Liberal stronghold in Toronto byelection

Growing political discontent in a Liberal stronghold could lead to a Conservative breakthrough in an Ontario byelection that may put Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s leadership to the test. On Monday, voters in the riding of Toronto-St. Paul's will head to the polls to elect a new member of Parliament.

Untreated water available for residents, businesses at 2 Calgary locations as water consumption continues to drop

An outbreak of summer weather didn’t deter Calgary from turning off the taps Saturday.

Ontario may now be Canada's tornado capital, researchers say

A Prairie province previously thought to be the tornado capital of Canada has been dethroned by Ontario, according to new data by tornado researchers out of Western University.

B.C. First Nations involved in salmon farming demand apology from William Shatner, Ryan Reynolds

A coalition of B.C. First Nations involved in open-net salmon farming have called on Canadian actors William Shatner and Ryan Reynolds to apologize for a profanity-laced video criticizing the wider industry.

'We're enraged': Tori Dunn’s father shares her heartbreaking final moments

Hundreds of mourners gathered at a vigil in Surrey Bend Regional Park Saturday evening to honour Tori Dunn, who was killed in the city’s Port Kells neighbourhood last weekend.

A fourth victim has died a day after a shooting at an Arkansas grocery store, police say

Police said a fourth victim has died a day after a shooter opened fire at an Arkansas grocery store, wounding nine others and riddling cars with bullet holes as panicked bystanders scrambled for cover.

presidential visits to lithuania

Montreal woman desperately trying to get family out of Gaza

Israa Hilles is desperate for morsels of news from her family, trapped in Gaza as the war rages on around them.

Homicide detectives investigating death of man found in Scarborough restaurant after fire

Homicide detectives are investigating the death of a man who was pulled from a fire at a restaurant in Scarborough early Saturday morning.

Pro-Palestinian protesters set up encampment in Montreal's Victoria Square

A group of pro-Palestinian protesters has set up an encampment at Victoria Square in downtown Montreal.

presidential visits to lithuania

U.K. election betting scandal widens as a fourth Conservative Party official reportedly investigated

The chief data officer of Britain's Conservative Party has taken a leave of absence, British media reported Sunday, following growing allegations that the governing party's members used inside information to bet on the date of Britain's July 4 national election before it was announced.

presidential visits to lithuania

Trump floats 'migrant league of fighters' in latest dehumanizing rhetoric against migrants

Former U.S. president Donald Trump said he floated the idea of having a 'migrant league of fighters' to UFC President Dana White, using dehumanizing language to describe illegal immigrants.

Over 1,000 died during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, officials say

More than 1,000 people died during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia as the faithful faced extreme high temperatures at Islamic holy sites in the desert kingdom, officials said Sunday.

With its new pact with North Korea, Russia raises the stakes with the West over Ukraine

Behind the smiles, the balloons and the red-carpet pageantry of President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea last week, a strong signal came through: In the spiraling confrontation with the U.S. and its allies over Ukraine, the Russian leader is willing to challenge Western interests like never before.

presidential visits to lithuania

NATO head says 'no imminent threat' to alliance member countries

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is not worried about military attacks on member countries.

Former Calgary mayor Naheed Nenshi wins Alberta NDP leadership

Former Calgary mayor Naheed Nenshi will replace Rachel Notley as the Alberta NDP leader after receiving 86 per cent of the vote on the first ballot.

Looking for the Fountain of Youth? Try the gym and weight-resistance training

Here's the message from Dr. Marcas Bamman, a physiologist with decades of research into aging who preaches the benefits of weight-resistance training for those who are getting up there.

Allergic to penicillin? You might want to get that checked

On paper, penicillin allergy is a common condition, with about 10 per cent of Canadians having one noted in their medical record. However, the reality is that very few of these diagnoses are accurate.

presidential visits to lithuania

Warning labels on social media not enough on their own to protect teens: expert

A proposal to add warning labels to social media is a step in the right direction, but will likely not be enough on their own to curb the negative effects of social media on teenagers, an expert in clinical psychology says.

Canada joins NASA asteroid impact exercise, new satellite to hunt for planet-killers

NASA is planning to launch a satellite that will hunt for asteroids and comets that could pose a danger to Earth.

Job losses and killer robots: The 'Godfather of AI' describes plenty to fear, but there may be room for hope

University of Toronto computer scientist Geoffrey Hinton describes plenty to fear with AI, but with visions of combat drones, mass surveillance and robot overlords ahead, there may be space for hope.

Entertainment

presidential visits to lithuania

'Happy Bday M8!': William meets Taylor Swift backstage at London show

Taylor Swift brought her Eras Tour to London’s Wembley Stadium on Friday with some famous faces in the audience, including the Prince of Wales and two of his children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

OPINION | If Dolly Parton can be cancelled, we're in serious trouble

The person most unlikely to be cancelled in U.S. history — iconic American singer, songwriter and actress, Dolly Parton — has been caught in the crosshairs of cancel culture.

Donald Sutherland was 'in awe' of son Kiefer while filming 'Forsaken,' says director

The film marked the first and only time he had acted opposite son Kiefer Sutherland, and they were cast as a former gunslinger and his estranged father who confronted a merciless businessman in 1872 Wyoming.

presidential visits to lithuania

Economists say BoC could cut interest rates again in July if inflation keeps cooling

Economists are forecasting inflation slowed further in May, which would be welcome progress for the Bank of Canada after it cut its key lending rate for the first time in four years.

CDK hackers want millions in ransom to end car dealership outage, Bloomberg News reports

A group of hackers claiming responsibility for a cyberattack on CDK's software systems has demanded millions of dollars in ransom to put an end to the hack, which affected auto dealers across the United States, Bloomberg News reported on Friday.

Here's how to take advantage of the market conditions to buy a home

The decrease in the Bank of Canada's (BoC) interest rate has helped buyers gain more confidence in the real estate market, but an Ottawa real estate broker says uncertainty remains an issue leaving some buyers skeptical.

presidential visits to lithuania

A new study shows that 1 year of this kind of exercise yields results 4 years later

Exercise is good, but resistance training with heavy weight is great! That's especially true if you are looking to maintain strength in older age, a new study shows.

Friday's Google Doodle celebrating Indigenous culture drawn by Ottawa-based artist

An Ottawa-based artist is responsible for Friday's Google Doodle celebrating ribbon skirts and shirts. The Doodle was posted on National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada.

Europe's richest man liked this Paris bistro so much his company bought it

French luxury conglomerate LVMH has added a tiny Parisian bistro to its sprawling empire of designer fashion brands, jewelry makers and hotels.

presidential visits to lithuania

Panthers face task of regrouping for Game 7 with history, Stanley Cup on the line

It's the greatest offer a team could get at the start of every season: Reach Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, and as an added bonus, play host to it in your rink. One game. For everything.

Cristiano Ronaldo 'lucky' not to come to harm after he's confronted by selfie-seekers: coach

Cristiano Ronaldo should consider himself lucky to have come to no harm after being confronted on the field by four supporters who wanted selfies during a European Championship match on Saturday, Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said.

How 19-year-old Arda Güler, dubbed 'the Turkish Messi,' lit up the European Championship

When Arda Güler scored a stunning goal in Turkey’s 3-1 win against Georgia this week – rifling the ball into the top corner from distance – it enhanced his status as one of the best young soccer players in the world.

presidential visits to lithuania

More than 100 stolen vehicles recovered in auto theft probe involving ServiceOntario employee: Toronto police

Toronto police say they have arrested four suspects and recovered more than 100 stolen vehicles as part of a months-long auto theft probe that involved a former ServiceOntario employee.

Bugatti's new car is a US$4 million, 1,800 horsepower hybrid

Bugatti has unveiled its new model, the Bugatti Tourbillon, a massively powerful hybrid with an equally impressive price tag. The car will replace the US$3.3 million, 1,500 horsepower Bugatti Chiron.

Local Spotlight

presidential visits to lithuania

'It's a tradition': Titanic model returning to Halifax Public Gardens

For the first time in two years, a model of the RMS Titanic will return to the Halifax Public Gardens, thanks in part to public demand.

Where is Louis Riel? Heritage Minute of Métis leader quietly removed

A decision to quietly remove a decades-old Heritage Minute on Louis Riel has left some in the Métis community scratching their heads, as questions are raised about how Canada's history is portrayed.

New pup taking over as Victim Services Toronto's trauma dog

There's a changing of the guard at Victim Services Toronto, as one trauma dog hangs up her harness and another reports for duty.

Satellite imagery confirms 5 tornadoes hit Quebec during June 13 storm

The Northern Tornadoes Project (NTP) out of Western University in Ontario confirmed that five tornadoes touched down in Quebec during the June 13 storm, bringing the total number of tornadoes in the project to six.

'Historic victory': Judge orders Quebec to pay taxi drivers $143 million for abolishing permits

A Superior Court judge has ordered the Quebec government to pay taxi drivers $143 million in compensation for its decision to abolish their permits nearly five years ago.

This 16-year-old is U of T's youngest graduate since at least 1979

Honciuc Menendez is barely old enough to get a driver’s licence but on Friday he’ll officially graduate from the University of Toronto with distinction.

Deer makes unexpected visit to Ottawa apartment

Police say a deer gained entry to a basement apartment in Ottawa's west end this week and refused to leave.

Calgary woman looking for her 'angel Natalie' who saved her life

A Calgary woman who recently had a health scare is looking to make contact with a woman in her neighbourhood who helped get her to hospital.

Guelph, Ont. high school choir sings at Foreigner concert

High school students from Guelph, Ont. had the chance to perform with a legendary rock band on Friday night.

presidential visits to lithuania

B.C. court overturns environmental board's ruling over 'apprehension of bias'

A B.C. Supreme Court judge has overturned a ruling by the province's Environmental Appeal Board after finding that the conduct of the panel's chair and one of its members led to a "reasonable apprehension of bias" in its decision.

Man in critical condition after arrest in northern B.C., IIO seeks witnesses

B.C.’s police watchdog is investigating after a man was seriously injured while being arrested in Dawson Creek.

Memorial planned today in Toronto to honour Ontario police officers who died by suicide

A memorial ceremony is planned in Toronto this morning to honour Ontario police officers and civilian members who have died by suicide.

presidential visits to lithuania

1 man in hospital following Saturday night Calgary shooting on Cornerstone

One man is in hospital following a Saturday night shooting in northeast Calgary.

'Bulldozing our history': Alberta man working to restore town's grain elevators

When Leo Wieser worked in the movie biz, he built a million-dollar swimming pool that was used for one day.

presidential visits to lithuania

Judge sides with Ottawa Community Housing over tenant snow-clearing duties

Ontario's top court has dismissed a case brought by an Ottawa mother and son after a dispute over snow-clearing duties under their lease agreement with the Ottawa Community Housing Corporation (OCH).

Ottawa Hospital's golf fundraising event raises $9.5 million to improve medicine worldwide

The Gulf Quest 4 Clinical Trials (GQCT) is one step closer to hitting its target of $10 million to help fund research at the Ottawa Hospital.

Impaired driver facing charges after driving into OPP parking lot

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) says a driver is facing charges after driving into their parking lot in Ottawa Sunday morning.

presidential visits to lithuania

WEATHER | Montreal under severe thunderstorm watch, rainfall warning on Sunday

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the Montreal area as the region continues to be under a rainfall warning Sunday.

presidential visits to lithuania

Ukrainian drones and missiles kill 6 in Russia and Crimea, fresh bombing of Kharkiv leaves 1 dead

Russian authorities said four people died and over 100 were wounded in Ukrainian drone and missile attacks on Sunday, while the second day of Russia's aerial bombing of Kharkiv in northeastern Ukraine killed at least one person.

presidential visits to lithuania

Doors closed for Catholic church one day before 'Doors Open' event in Halifax

It was doors closed for St. Patrick's Catholic Church on 'Doors Open for Churches' day in Halifax.

Tide turns on declining lifeguard numbers, but more are still needed this summer

Progress is being made to train more lifeguards for the summer ahead, following several years of declining certification numbers.

Tributes remember J.K. Irving for his business, community contributions

James K. Irving is being remembered as a legend in Canadian business while championing causes close to New Brunswick.

presidential visits to lithuania

Three people charged in two separate Manitoba homicides: RCMP

Manitoba RCMP has arrested three people in two separate homicide investigations.

Vehicle involved in inter-provincial missing child investigation located in Saskatchewan

The vehicle which is believed to be involved in an inter-provincial missing child investigation has been located in Saskatchewan.

New tennis courts coming to southwest Winnipeg park

Southwest Winnipeg will soon have two new tennis courts for people to enjoy.

presidential visits to lithuania

New wellness centre opens in honour of Regina mom who died by suicide

Mothers and families struggling with postpartum depression or navigating the struggles of parenthood have access to some help through a new wellness centre which opened its doors in Regina Saturday.

Parts of Sask. at 'high risk' for thunderstorms: Environment Canada

A large part of Saskatchewan is at a high risk for thunderstorms heading into Sunday, according to an outlook by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC).

presidential visits to lithuania

57th annual Multicultural Festival underway in Kitchener

The weekend-long event drew thousands of attendees on Saturday, showcasing the myriad of cultures that contribute to the city’s unique tapestry.

Family of Kitchener man fatally shot by police calls for coroner’s inquest

A Waterloo regional police officer who shot and killed a man in Kitchener, Ont., earlier this year will not be charged, the province’s Special Investigations Unit said in a press release Friday.

presidential visits to lithuania

Saskatoon man on electric scooter killed in collision with alleged drunk driver

A 25-year-old man succumbed to his injuries after being hit by a car while riding an electric scooter early Saturday morning.

Saskatoon Pride Parade bigger than ever for its 2024 return

Over a hundred floats, representing institutions from across Saskatchewan took part in the 2024 Pride Parade —Saskatoon's largest annual parade event.

One killed following structure fire in North Battleford

An early morning fire that ripped through a structure in North Battleford claimed the life of one individual.

Northern Ontario

presidential visits to lithuania

Illegal moose hunters fined $56.5K, suspended for 27 years in northern Ont.

A remote hunting outpost, its former owner and 10 others have been fined a total of $56,500 after pleading guilty to various charges related to illegal moose hunting in northern Ontario.

EXCLUSIVE | 'We were in danger': Timmins, Ont., manhunt prompts questions from cottagers near shootout

Cottagers who live near the area where murder suspect Lucas MacDonald was captured say they didn't realize how much danger they were in.

Collison with deer sparks three-vehicle crash on Hwy. 11

Ontario Provincial Police in North Bay released a video Friday of a three-vehicle crash in Callander, Ont., caused by a collision with a deer.

presidential visits to lithuania

Police investigating suspicious fire at west London clothing store

London police are treating a fire to a business in west London as suspicious. Just after 2:30 a.m. fire crews were called to a clothing store at 725 Notre Dame Dr. in London.

Pedestrian in hospital with critical Injuries

Officers were called to the busy intersection of Wellington Road and Commissioners Road mid-afternoon for a person hit by a vehicle.

VIDEO | One person sent to hospital after morning house fire

Crews were called to the scene on Summit Avenue near Oxford Street just after 6:30 a.m. after a caller reported seeing smoke coming from the home.

presidential visits to lithuania

Rainfall warning, thunderstorm watch still in effect for Simcoe Muskoka

Heavy rain and thunderstorms are on the way through the region.

First-ever Pride event held in Alliston

As Pride month events continue throughout the region, on Saturday, the festivities were extra special in New Tecumseth.

Plainclothed officers cleared from charges in February investigation

Multiple Ontario Provincial Police officers have been cleared of wrongdoing in an investigation where a man suffered serious injuries.

presidential visits to lithuania

One person dead after motorcycle leaves road, hits tree and catches fire

A person from Leamington is dead after a crash in Middlesex County. Around 2:45 a.m. on Sunday, first responders were called to a crash on Longwoods Road near Sassafras Road in Southwest Middlesex.

Vigil planned for family found dead in Harrow

A 7 p.m. vigil is planned for the unnamed mother, father and two children at the local soccer complex.

Heat warning comes down, chance of showers in Windsor-Essex

Daytime highs will return to seasonal levels throughout the week with overnight lows also cooling off significantly compared to the last week.

Vancouver Island

presidential visits to lithuania

B.C. highway reopened after school bus, pedestrian crashes that killed 1 and sent 14 to hospital

Traffic began moving again overnight on Highway 97 north of Lac La Hache, B.C., after a pair of crashes – one involving a school bus – left one person dead and sent 14 people to hospital Friday afternoon.

presidential visits to lithuania

Man shot dead in Princeton, B.C., was high-ranking gang member, court records suggest

Police have identified a man found dead in B.C.’s Interior last weekend as Donald “Donnie” Lyons.

Pedestrian killed on Hwy. 97 following bus crash that caused 'numerous' injuries

A pedestrian was struck and killed on Highway 97 in the B.C. Interior early Friday afternoon as emergency crews were responding a school bus crash that caused “numerous” injuries to those on board.

'High volume' of excessive speeders in Kelowna prompts highway patrol crackdown

Police in the Okanagan have been impounding more than a vehicle per day for excessive speeding this year.

presidential visits to lithuania

Lethbridge celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day

National Indigenous People’s Day celebrations got an early start today.

Game 6 of Stanley Cup Final gets the big screen treatment in Lethbridge

The resurgence of the Oilers in the NHL finals might be a tough pill for hockey fans in Calgary to swallow, but down in Lethbridge, they’re giving Friday night’s Game 6 the big screen treatment.

Hikers injured in Waterton bear attack out of hospital, bear not yet located

Parks officials say two hikers injured in an Alberta bear attack last week are now out of hospital.

Sault Ste. Marie

presidential visits to lithuania

OPP, Treaty Three police lay murder charge in northwestern Ont.

Ontario Provincial Police in partnership with the Treaty Three Police Service have charged a suspect with second-degree murder following an investigation in a remote Indigenous northwestern Ontario community.

Northern Ontario Indigenous not-for-profit energy company releases new book

An Indigenous not-for-profit energy company is releasing a book about its fight to bring electricity to a group of First Nation communities on northern Ontario's James Bay coast.

Heavy rainfall warnings still in effect for much of northeastern Ont.

Environment Canada has extended its heavy rainfall warning for much of northeastern Ontario, which began Saturday.

presidential visits to lithuania

Wildfire near Churchill Falls in Labrador stable, but weather not co-operating

Officials in central Labrador say the wildfire threatening the evacuated town of Churchill Falls remained stable Saturday, but there was no sign of significant rain in the forecast.

Newfoundland and Labrador getting help from Quebec, Ontario to battle wildfires

Water bombers from Quebec and Ontario will soon be helping battle wildfires in Newfoundland and Labrador.

'You can literally see the sculptor's handwork': Memorial restored as Newfoundlanders reflect on First World War's toll

Historic monuments adorning the National War Memorial in downtown St. John’s, N.L. are being restored to their full glory this week ahead of Memorial Day ceremonies.

Shopping Trends

The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop.  Read about us.

Editor's Picks

The 5 best ice cream makers in canada in 2024, tested and reviewed, our guide to the best portable air conditioners in canada in 2024 (and where to get them), 17 stylish things from gap that’ll help you complete your summer capsule wardrobe, the 5 best beach tents in canada, tested and reviewed, this waffle weave shower curtain is a best-seller on amazon canada — here's why, the 5 best mattress toppers in canada in 2024 (and where to get them), 13 brilliant budget-friendly gifts that cost less than $25, 15 of the best graduation gifts you can get online right now, 15 extremely practical graduation gifts, i was skeptical, but this bio-oil skincare oil is actually magic for scars and stretch marks, 10 of the best detangling brushes you can get online right now, according to reviewers, 12 of the best primers for every skin type, health & fitness, 15 of the most comfortable camping mats you can get online right now, if you have an anxious dog, you probably need these anxiety-relief products, 15 bug bite relief products that actually work, stay connected.

presidential visits to lithuania

Office of the Historian

UK Edition Change

  • UK Politics
  • News Videos
  • Paris 2024 Olympics
  • Rugby Union
  • Sport Videos
  • John Rentoul
  • Mary Dejevsky
  • Andrew Grice
  • Sean O’Grady
  • Photography
  • Theatre & Dance
  • Culture Videos
  • Fitness & Wellbeing
  • Food & Drink
  • Health & Families
  • Royal Family
  • Electric Vehicles
  • Car Insurance Deals
  • Lifestyle Videos
  • UK Hotel Reviews
  • News & Advice
  • Simon Calder
  • Australia & New Zealand
  • South America
  • C. America & Caribbean
  • Middle East
  • Politics Explained
  • News Analysis
  • Today’s Edition
  • Home & Garden
  • Broadband deals
  • Fashion & Beauty
  • Travel & Outdoors
  • Sports & Fitness
  • Sustainable Living
  • Climate Videos
  • Solar Panels
  • Behind The Headlines
  • On The Ground
  • Decomplicated
  • You Ask The Questions
  • Binge Watch
  • Travel Smart
  • Watch on your TV
  • Crosswords & Puzzles
  • Most Commented
  • Newsletters
  • Ask Me Anything
  • Virtual Events
  • Betting Sites
  • Online Casinos
  • Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Ukraine's Zelenskyy opens a visit to the Baltic nations, seeking more aid against Russia's invasion

Ukrainian president volodymyr zelenskyy has arrived in lithuania ahead of visits to estonia and latvia, as ukraine seeks more help to bolster its air defenses amid russia’s intensified missile and drone onslaughts in the latest development of the 22-month war, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Breaking News

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails

Sign up to our free breaking news emails, thanks for signing up to the breaking news email.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy began a visit Wednesday to the Baltic countries, arriving in Lithuania as his country seeks to bolster its air defenses amid Russia’s intensified missile and drone onslaughts in the 22-month-old war.

The focus of his two-day trip to Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, Zelenskyy said on his official Telegram channel, will be security concerns, Ukraine’s hopes to join the European Union and NATO, and building partnerships in drone production and electronic warfare capacities.

Zelenskyy thanked Lithuania for its military assistance and goodwill. He was expected in Estonia and Latvia on Thursday.

“We know how tiring this long-running war is, and we are interested in Ukraine’s complete victory in it as soon as possible,” Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda told reporters.

The small countries are among Ukraine’s staunchest political, financial and military supporters, and some in the Baltics worry that they could be Moscow’s next target.

They have pushed Kyiv’s other Western allies to provide increasingly sophisticated weapons since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.

The three countries were seized and annexed by Josef Stalin during World War II before regaining independence with the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991. They joined NATO in 2004, placing themselves under the military protection of the U.S. and its Western allies.

“Democratic countries have done a lot to help Ukraine , but we need to do more together so that Ukraine wins and the aggressor loses,” Estonian President Alar Karis said in a statement.

“Then there is the hope that this will remain the last military aggression in Europe, where someone wants to dictate to their neighbor with missiles, drones and cannons what political choices can be made,” he said.

In his Telegram message, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the Baltic countries for their “uncompromising” support of Ukraine over the past 10 years, referring to 2014 when Russia’s aggression started with the illegal annexation of Ukraine’s Crimea Peninsula.

Russia’s recent escalation of missile and drone attacks is stretching Ukraine’s air defense resources, a Ukrainian air force official said Tuesday, leaving the country vulnerable unless it can secure further weapons supplies.

Zelenskyy’s energetic international diplomacy during the war has been essential to maintain pressure on friendly countries to keep supplying Kyiv with billions of dollars in weaponry, including German Leopard tanks, U.S. Patriot missile systems and British Storm Shadow cruise missiles.

That support has tailed off recently, however. A plan by the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden to send to Kyiv billions of dollars in further aid is stuck in Congress, and Europe’s pledge in March to provide 1 million artillery shells within 12 months has fallen short, with only about 300,000 delivered so far.

Meanwhile, long-range strikes by the Kremlin’s forces have continued.

Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, came under attack from Russian S-300 missiles late Tuesday, said Mayor Ihor Terekhov.

The Russians hit an unoccupied summer camp on the northeastern city’s outskirts, he said on Telegram. Several buildings were damaged but no casualties were reported.

Ukraine also kept up its attempts to hit targets inside Russia.

The Russian Defense Ministry said its air defenses downed a Ukrainian drone early Wednesday over the Saratov region of southwestern Russia, on the Volga River.

Saratov Gov. Roman Busargin said the drone was downed over the Engels district, which is home to Russia’s main strategic bomber base that have launched cruise missiles at Ukraine. He said there were no casualties or damage.

Associated Press writer Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv, Ukraine, contributed.

Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

  • My Independent Premium
  • Account details
  • Help centre

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

The Crazy Tourist

Home » Travel Guides » Lithuania » 25 Best Things to Do in Lithuania

25 Best Things to Do in Lithuania

Lithuania became the first country in the Soviet Republic to leave the USSR in 1990 and since then has been trying to re-establish itself in its own right ever since. There are many relics of the Soviet period such as bunkers and museums, but you will also find a whole lot more in this country including beautiful churches, monasteries, and palaces.

From the capital city of Vilnius to wide open spaces like the Curonian Spit, there is a lot to see in this country and a surprising number of quirky and interesting museums like the Beekeeping Museum and the Money Museum. Several spots in the country are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and wherever you choose to go you will find winding cobbled streets, charming local markets, and impressive red brick architecture.

Here are the best things to do in Lithuania :

1. Wander around Vilnius Old Town

Vilnius Old Town

Vilnius Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sits at the point where two of Lithuania’s main rivers converge.

It is known for being one of the premium medieval towns in Europe thanks to its amazingly well preserved buildings, and showcases architecture in the Gothic, Renaissance, and Neo-Classical styles.

All the structures are centered on a main piazza and you will find cobbled streets that are dotted with bars and eateries.

Some of the signature spots here include St. Anne’s Church, the Presidential Palace, and two Jewish quarters.

2. Take a trip to Trakai

Trakai Castle

Trakai is a lake resort and historically important city that sits close to Vilnius and makes a nice day trip if you are looking to get out of town.

Trakai dates from the 13th century and is also the home of the Trakai Historical National Park that dates from 1991. One of the main sights in the city is the Island Castle which is also the host of the Trakai Castle Festival and the entire town is surrounded by pretty water.

In the wider Trakai region there are some 200 lakes to enjoy during the warmer months.

3. Brave the Devil’s Museum

Devil’s Museum

The Devil’s Museum is found in Kaunas and as you would expect from the name it has a huge collection of art work that depict images of the devil, witches, and a range of other wicked mythological creatures.

You will find over 3,000 different pieces here and visitors can even donate items to the collection.

There are a huge range of works here that use different materials such as ceramics, textiles, and paintings and you can even find other interesting items like pebbles that feature images of the devil.

4. Visit St. Anne’s Church

St. Anne’s Church

St. Anne’s Church in Vilnius is one of the prettiest buildings in Lithuania and is made up of picturesque brick towers and rose windows.

The spires date from 1501 and were designed in the Gothic style and inside the church you will find high ceilings as well as carved pews.

The church has a grand bell tower that sits to its right and together with St.

Bernadine and St. Francis churches that nestle close by it makes up part fo the wider Bernadine Priory.

5. Explore the Curonian Spit & Kursiu Nerija National Park

Curonian Spit & Kursiu Nerija National Park

The Curonian Spit refers to a long strip of sand between the Curonian Lagoon and the mighty Baltic Sea.

Part of the spit is located in Russia with the northern side in Lithuania.

The spit is the product of a glacier that dates back 5,000 years and it has some of the highest dunes in all of Europe.

Some of these measure 60 meters and lead on to beautiful sandy beaches.

The national park here was formed in 1991 to guard the precious ecosystems found in the Curonian Spit and you will find a wide range of waterfowl here in the wetlands and dunes.

6. Wonder at the Siauliai Hill of Crosses

Siauliai Hill Of Crosses

Close to the city of Siauliai is the Hill of Crosses which sits atop a small promontory.

Here you will find thousands of different types of crosses that include small crucifixes as well as large crosses made from metal and wood.

The site is meant to pay tribute to the devotion of many people in Lithuania and has become a pilgrimage spot for many followers.

The Hill of Crosses is also a memorial for those who have died in the country over the years due to uprisings and other civil strife.

7. Visit the Money Museum

Money Museum

The Money Museum is aptly located on the former site of the Bank of Lithuania and will take you on a journey to find out all about Lithuanian litas.

As well as the currency of Lithuania you can also find out about other world currencies and much of the museum is interactive to allow you to get hands-on.

The museum also tells the history of banking in Lithuania and how silverware was returned to the country after the fall of Communism.

There is also a great exhibit where you can weigh yourself to determine your weight in gold or other precious metals.

8. Journey to the Gate of Dawn

Gate Of Dawn

The Gate of Dawn is part of the original walls of defense of Vilnius which date from the medieval period.

In the days of old the walls would have had nine different entry points which would have been marked with a picture of the Virgin Mary as a good luck symbol to protect the city.

The wall was attacked by Russia in 1799 and most of it was destroyed except for the Gate of Dawn which can still be seen to this day.

9. Visit the Ginuciai Water Mill

Ginuciai Water Mill

Nestled close to Ignalina is the Ginuciai Water Mill which dates from the 19th century and still straddles the waters that travel down to scenic Lake Linkmenas.

In the days of old it would have been used to make flour and produce electricity although now it is a museum that also has a hotel attached.

It is famous for being the only remaining wooden mill in Lithuania and you can still see all of its traditional machinery such as water wheels and mill stones.

10. Enjoy Grutas Park

Grutas Park

Grutas Park is made up of a cultural center that has a range of quirky relics from the Soviet era as well as an adjoining sculpture garden.

After independence in 1991 Lithuania began to dismantle and jettison Soviet monuments, and these have now been preserved in the park.

The grounds sprawl over 20 hectares and you will find 86 different monuments here as well as models of Soviet prison camps including guard towers complete with barbed-wire fences.

There are also a range of statues of famous Communist leaders like Marx, Stalin, and Lenin and for any history buffs this is definitely not to be missed off the itinerary.

11. Visit the Museum of Genocide Victims

Museum Of Genocide Victims

The Museum of Genocide Victims sits in the old Gestapo and KGB headquarters in Vilnius and acts as a permanent memorial to all those who lost their lives during the Soviet occupation of Lithuania after the Second World War.

The museum tells the story of how Lithuania suffered under Stalin and has models of torture chambers and execution grounds.

There is also a section of the museum dedicated to the Jewish ghettos and the period during the Holocaust.

12. Explore Aukstaitija National Park

Aukstaitija National Park

Aukstaitija National Park sprawls for over 400 square kilometers and is filled with beautiful pine and spruce trees.

If you want to check out the local flora and fauna in Lithuania then this is the place to do it and you will find wild boar as well as deer and elk.

An amazing 30% of the park is made up of water and you will also find 30 rivers and 126 lakes here.

The most famous of these is Lake Baluosas which has seven islands within it that let you island hop and take in the gorgeous natural landscapes.

As well as natural attractions you will also find buildings such as a water mill and the quirky Beekeeping Museum.

13. Learn some history at Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum

Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum

Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum is the place to come if you want to learn more about the fascinating folk customs found in Lithuania.

This open-air museum celebrates traditional customs that date back 200 years including national costumes, traditional toys, historic buildings, and religious artifacts.

There are around 80 buildings here including farms and reconstructed villages with churches.

You can look at the traditional rooms here and see typical Lithuanian period furniture as well as cooking implements and tools.

14. Pay your respects at the Church of the Holy Spirit

Church Of The Holy Spirit

The Church of the Holy Spirit dates from the 15th century and is one of the most picturesque churches in Vilnius.

Over the years it has seen a lot of changes and used to be a Catholic church and a monastery before becoming an Orthodox parish church.

The interior of the church is something of a spectacle and you will see ornately carved wooden pews as well as flower arrangements, gilt furnishings, and brightly colored decorations.

There are also different hued frescoes and marble inlays as well an impressive 16 altars.

15. Marvel at Pazaislis Monastery

Pazaislis Monastery

Pazaislis Monastery is widely thought of as the most beautiful Italian baroque building in Lithuania and, along with the church of Kaunas, it is also the largest monastery complex in the country.

The monastery dates from 1662 and was restored in the 1990s having been used as a psychiatric hospital and an art gallery.

Aside from being incredibly beautiful the monastery is also home to an international music festival held here every summer.

16. Visit Kaunas

Kaunas

Kaunas is the second largest city in Lithuania and sits at the point where the majestic Neris and Nemunas rivers converge.

It is known throughout Lithuania as the city of culture as there are over 40 museums housed here as well as a picturesque Old Town area.

Many of the buildings located here showcase baroque, renaissance, and gothic designs and tops spots not to miss include the Kaunas Cathedral Basilica, the Kaunas Castle, and Vyautas Church.

17. Take in the views from Gediminas Tower

Gediminas Tower

Gediminas Castle Tower is part of what would have been called Upper Castle, a wider complex built in the 14th century in Vilnius.

The tower can be reached by either climbing Castle Hill or you can take a scenic funicular if you are in the mood for something a little more relaxing.

The tower is located 48 meters above the city allowing you scenic views and you can take in the signature hexagonal shape from the outside or explore the weapons and armory exhibitions inside.

18. Explore vibrant Uzupis

Uzupis

Uzupis used to be part of neighboring Vilnius when it was known for being the main Jewish area of the city.

In 1997 it declared independence from Vilnius and has its own president and even its own constitution.

Nowadays it is known for being one of the most exciting areas of Lithuania and has a great street art scenes as well as a wealth of art galleries and underground music venues.

It is also famous for its street market every Thursday which sees a range of organic produce from all over the country.

19. Visit the Presidential Palace

Presidential Palace

The Presidential Palace in Daukanto Square in Vilnius is the official home of the President of Lithuania and dates from the 14th century.

It sprawls over a large piazza and has a signature neo-classical façade.

One of the big draws here is the flag changing ceremony that is held at noon every Sunday as well as the daily Changing of the Guard that takes place at 6 pm.

20. Have a spa session in Neringa

Beaches

Neringa is located in the Curonian Spit National Park and is primarily known for being a scenic spa own.

The reason for this is the waters of the Baltic Sea which flow here and which are said to be rich in healing minerals that can treat a range of illnesses.

Visitors from all over Lithuania flock here for the spa treatments and the area is surrounded by sandy beaches and majestic sand dunes.

21. Buy some gems at the Amber Museum-Gallery

Amber Museum-Gallery

Amber used to be referred to as Baltic Gold and was once the most important part of the maritime trade routes in this part of the world.

The Amber Museum in Vilnius is located in the basement of a home that dates from the 15th century and you will find pieces here that are said to be over 50 million years old.

As well as traditional amber you will also find different hued pieces including red, green, black, and white and some even contain the fossilized remains of insects that date from the prehistoric period.

There is also a gift shop here where you can buy your own amber jewelry pieces that make great souvenirs.

22. Enjoy the Beekeeping Museum

Beekeeping Museum

There was once a time in Lithuania when bees where considered sacred, and even in the modern era honey is considered a friendship symbol.

Located in the Aukstaitija National Park, the Beekeeping Museum is one of the stranger attractions in Lithuania and first opened its doors in 1984. The museum tells the story of beekeeping in the country over the years and you can see ancient bee related tools and hives.

There are also a range of glass fronted beehives located outside the museum where you can watch the industrious bees making honey and the museum also takes you through the importance of beekeeping in other cultures such as Egyptian and Native American.

23. Visit Kedainiai Old Town

Kedainiai Old Town

Kedainiai Old Town has the claim to fame of being one of the oldest towns in Lithuania and is covered in pretty baroque architecture.

The town was first founded in 1372 and used to be a fishing village before growing in size and the city center is full of wondrous sights.

These include townhouses from the Baroque period as well as Protestant and Orthodox churches and a range of synagogues.

There are also a number of market squares that sell local produce during the week.

24. Enter the Atomic Bunker Museum

Atomic Bunker Museum

One of the most famous attractions in Kaunas is the Atomic Bunker Museum which offers you a glimpse of war history in Lithuania.

The museum is located in a nuclear bunker which is 6 meters underground and would have been set up during the Soviet period.

There are 1,200 items here that date from the Second World War to the modern era and you can see Cold War memorabilia like period radios and transmitters.

There is also a range of medical equipment and you will even find gas masks and air horns.

25. Explore Vilnius Cathedral

Vilnius Cathedral

Vilnius Cathedral started out in the 13th century under the watchful eye of King Mindaugas who ordered its construction.

The building was razed to the ground by fires several times and the building that currently stands was rebuilt in 1801 in the neoclassical style.

During the Soviet period it would have been used as a garage although now it has been restored to its former glory and has ornate decorations and a belfry that measures 57 meters high.

25 Best Things to Do in Lithuania:

  • Wander around Vilnius Old Town
  • Take a trip to Trakai
  • Brave the Devil’s Museum
  • Visit St. Anne’s Church
  • Explore the Curonian Spit & Kursiu Nerija National Park
  • Wonder at the Siauliai Hill of Crosses
  • Visit the Money Museum
  • Journey to the Gate of Dawn
  • Visit the Ginuciai Water Mill
  • Enjoy Grutas Park
  • Visit the Museum of Genocide Victims
  • Explore Aukstaitija National Park
  • Learn some history at Rumsiskes Open-Air Museum
  • Pay your respects at the Church of the Holy Spirit
  • Marvel at Pazaislis Monastery
  • Visit Kaunas
  • Take in the views from Gediminas Tower
  • Explore vibrant Uzupis
  • Visit the Presidential Palace
  • Have a spa session in Neringa
  • Buy some gems at the Amber Museum-Gallery
  • Enjoy the Beekeeping Museum
  • Visit Kedainiai Old Town
  • Enter the Atomic Bunker Museum
  • Explore Vilnius Cathedral

IMAGES

  1. LITHUANIA-VILNIUS-PRESIDENTS-MEETING

    presidential visits to lithuania

  2. Visit The Presidential Palace In Vilnius, Lithuania

    presidential visits to lithuania

  3. Polish and Lithuanian Presidents meet in Vilnius

    presidential visits to lithuania

  4. Lithuania visit of Prince Haakon and Princess Mette-Marit

    presidential visits to lithuania

  5. Presidential Palace in Vilnius and Lithuanian Flags at Sunny Day

    presidential visits to lithuania

  6. Presidential Palace in Vilnius and Lithuanian Flags at Sunny Day

    presidential visits to lithuania

COMMENTS

  1. Statement from White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on

    The President will then travel to Vilnius, Lithuania from July 11- 12 to attend the 74th NATO Summit. On July 13, President Biden will visit Helsinki, Finland for a U.S.-Nordic Leaders Summit.

  2. White House: Biden to travel to Britain, Lithuania, Finland from July 9

    WASHINGTON, July 2 (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden will travel to Europe later this month for meetings in Britain, Lithuania and Finland, the White House said on Sunday. Biden's trip ...

  3. US President Joe Biden arrives in Lithuania

    102. LRT.lt 2023.07.10 19:45. Joe Biden arrives in Lithuania / AP nuotr. On Monday evening US President Joe Biden arrived in Lithuania ahead of the Vilnius NATO Summit due to start on Tuesday. Biden's Air Force One landed at Vilnius Airport at around 19:15. Biden and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken were met by Lithuanian President Gitanas ...

  4. Volodymyr Zelensky on surprise visit to Lithuania

    CNN —. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made an unannounced visit to Lithuania, a key ally of Kyiv as it battles Russia's invasion . Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said in a ...

  5. List of international presidential trips made by Volodymyr Zelenskyy

    State visit Lithuania: Vilnius: 27 November: State visit: 10 France: Paris: 9 December: Attended a Normandy Format meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. This was the last meeting President Zelenskyy had with President Putin before the Russian invasion of Ukraine. 11 ...

  6. President Biden meets the Lithuanian president ahead of NATO summit

    President Joe Biden used his meeting with President Gitanas Nausėda of Lithuania to reaffirm U.S. commitment to NATO ahead of the alliance's summit in Vilnius. July 11, 2023 Read More

  7. Readout of President Joe

    President Joe Biden met with President Gitanas Nausėda of Lithuania in Vilnius on July 11, 2023. President Biden thanked President Nausėda for Lithuania's hospitality in hosting the 2023 NATO ...

  8. US President Biden to come to Lithuania during NATO summit in July

    Ridas Jasiulionis, his adviser, later confirmed to BNS that the details of visits are being coordinated with all participating countries, including the US administration, and that there are "no doubts" about Biden's visit. Lithuania will host NATO's summit for the first time on July 11-12.

  9. Remarks by President Biden and President Gitanas Nausėda of Lithuania

    Presidential Palace Vilnius, Lithuania. 10:42 A.M. EEST PRESIDENT NAUSĖDA: (In progress.) And, first of all, I would like to remind you that we are celebrating one and — 100 years of our ...

  10. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy makes surprise visit to Lithuania to

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made an unannounced visit to Lithuania, a key ally of Kyiv as it battles Russia's invasion. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said in a statement he ...

  11. Lithuania

    Travels of the President; Visits by Foreign Heads of State; World War I and the Department ... Travels of the President; Lithuania; Lithuania. Name Locale Remarks Date; George W. Bush: Vilnius: Met with the Presidents of the Baltic States. November 22-23, 2002:

  12. Twenty years ago, historic visit by Bush cleared Lithuania's path to

    The US president's visit to Lithuania in November 2002 marked an important milestone in Lithuania's NATO membership: the day before the visit, Lithuania received an invitation to start accession talks. But before Vilnius, Bush visited St Petersburg and met President Vladimir Putin. Antanas Valionis, Lithuania's then foreign minister ...

  13. United States presidential visits to Eastern Europe and Northern Asia

    Ten United States presidents have made presidential visits to Eastern Europe and Northern Asia.The first trip by an incumbent president to Eastern Europe was made by Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1945, to the Soviet Union, and was an offshoot of Allied diplomatic interactions during World War II.The first trip by an incumbent president to Northern Asia was made by Gerald Ford in 1974, also to the ...

  14. Ukraine's Zelenskyy opens a visit to the Baltic nations, seeking more

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Lithuania ahead of visits to Estonia and Latvia, as Ukraine seeks more help to bolster its air defenses amid Russia's intensified missile ...

  15. Secretary Blinken's Travel to the United Kingdom, Lithuania, and

    Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken will travel to the United Kingdom, Lithuania, and Indonesia, July 9-15, 2023. Secretary Blinken will travel to Jakarta, Indonesia, to participate in the annual U.S.-ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting, East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers' Meeting, and ASEAN Regional Forum. At each meeting, the Secretary will emphasize the United States' commitment […]

  16. United States presidential visits to Northern Europe

    Seven United States presidents have made presidential visits to Northern Europe. Richard Nixon became the first incumbent president to visit a Northern European country when he went to Iceland in 1973. The first trips were an offshoot of the general easing of the geo-political tensions between the U.S. and the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

  17. The President Met with the Speaker of Lithuania's Seimas

    President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Speaker of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen, who is on a visit to our country. ... The Head of State thanked the President of Lithuania Gitanas Nausėda, the Government and the Seimas, Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen personally, and all Lithuanian people ...

  18. Volodymyr Zelensky makes surprise visit to Lithuania

    15. B. LRT.lt, BNS 2024.01.10 10:28. Volodymyro Zelensky giving a speech in Vilnius / J. Stacevičiaus / LRT nuotr. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Lithuania on Wednesday morning. His visit was not announced in advance due to security concerns. His plane landed at Vilnius Airport at around 10:30, and he was met by Lithuanian ...

  19. Georgian president arrives in Lithuania on official visit

    President Gitanas Nausėda will meet on Monday with President of Georgia Salome Zurabichvili who will pay an official visit to Lithuania. The two leaders are set to discuss bilateral ...

  20. Dalia Grybauskaitė

    Grybauskaitė assumed presidential duties on 12 July 2009, and accepted half of her presidential salary (312,000 litas). Her first presidential visits abroad were made to Sweden and Latvia; in April 2011, she made a state visit to Norway. Grybauskaitė supported the NATO-led military intervention in Libya.

  21. 25 Best Things to Do in Lithuania

    19. Visit the Presidential Palace Source: Shuttterstock Presidential Palace. The Presidential Palace in Daukanto Square in Vilnius is the official home of the President of Lithuania and dates from the 14th century. It sprawls over a large piazza and has a signature neo-classical façade.

  22. President of Lithuania

    The president of the Republic of Lithuania (Lithuanian: Lietuvos Respublikos Prezidentas) is the head of state of the Republic of Lithuania.The president directs and appoints the executive branch of the Government of Lithuania, represents the nation internationally and is the commander-in-chief of the Lithuanian Armed Forces.The president is directly elected by the citizens of Lithuania for a ...

  23. Foreign Affairs Committee Chairs of EU Member States Visit Georgia

    Civil.ge 15/05/2024 - 16:02. 894 5 minutes read. On May 13, the Chairpersons of the Foreign Affairs Committees of the Parliaments of Lithuania, the Czechia, Finland and Poland and the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the German Bundestag began their visit to Georgia to hold meetings with the representatives of the government ...