“Reflections at the Four-Year Mark of Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine,” a talk by Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to the United States, Gediminas Varvuolis
February 5, 2026
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Co-hosted by Kerry Secrest, Honorary Consul of Lithuania to Vermont, Windham World Affairs Council and Saxtons Distillery.
On the occasion of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to the United States, Gediminas Varvuolis will offer an inside view on Lithuania’s unwavering support for Ukraine and what it will take to achieve a durable peace in the region. He will offer his perspective on the evolving Baltic security landscape, including Lithuania’s model for burden-sharing, defense investment, and energy independence at a time when resilience is essential. His remarks will illuminate both the stakes for Europe and the lessons that resonate far beyond its borders.
Ambassador Varvuolis has built a distinguished diplomatic career spanning three decades, representing Lithuania across Europe, Asia, and now the United States. His leadership has shaped Lithuania’s role in global security and cooperation—from advancing NATO integration and crisis management early in his career to deepening transatlantic partnerships and steering major initiatives such as the Three Seas Initiative. Serving as ambassador in capitals from Paris and Brussels to Tokyo and Washington, he has consistently strengthened Lithuania’s voice on the world stage.
Note: 6-7:30 p.m. Immediately after the talk, siblings Kerry Secrest and Christian Stromberg (owner of Saxtons Distillery) are holding a solidarity cocktail hour and bonfire “Warmth in the Cold: An Evening for Ukraine” to raise money for winter care packages.
