Lithuania's representative to become European Commissioner for Defence

Lithuanian politician Andrius Kubilius is likely to become the Commissioner for Security, Defence and Space in Ursula von der Leyen's new European Commission. 

Politico recalls that von der Leyen has previously said that the newly created post of defence commissioner should be given to someone from Central or Eastern Europe.

Kubilius is a member of the European Parliament who specialises in foreign affairs. The Lithuanian representative is an experienced politician, with more than five years of experience as a prime minister. Kubilius has held this position twice.

It is noted that the politician is widely respected for leading Lithuania through the 2008 financial crisis.

He is also an active supporter of Ukraine. In particular, he has emphasised the need for constant military support for Kyiv and called for forcing Moscow to foot the bill for Ukraine's reconstruction using all frozen Russian assets.

In Vilnius, Kubilius also proposed the creation of a government department or ministry that would be fully dedicated to Ukraine.

Lithuania has previously said that it would like to see Kubilius become European Commissioner for Defence.

Kubilius himself has said that the European Commission’s enlargement, including the accession of Ukraine, should be a priority over the next five years.

Sources report that Latvian representative Valdis Dombrovskis will be appointed Executive Vice-President for Enlargement and Reconstruction of Ukraine.