Lithuania seals 2 more Belarus checkpoints amid rising tensions

Lithuania closes two more Belarus checkpoints amidst rising tensions, bringing total sealed crossings to four, citing security risks and reduced permits for international bus services

Amid escalating tensions with its eastern neighbor, Lithuania announced on Wednesday the closure of two additional checkpoints with Belarus, bringing the total number of sealed border crossings to four out of six.

Starting March 1, the Lavoriskes and Raigardas checkpoints will cease operations, with all traffic rerouted to the remaining checkpoints in the villages of Medininkai and Salcininkai. Vilnius has also opted to suspend pedestrian and cyclist movement through the last remaining checkpoints.

The decision comes amid heightened concerns along NATO’s and the European Union’s borders following Belarus’ acceptance of numerous Russian military mercenaries. Belarus has further faced accusations of facilitating the movement of Middle Eastern and African migrants into Europe despite the presence of various barriers.

Lithuania’s Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite informed reporters that Wednesday’s decision was driven by “risks associated with increased activities of Belarusian intelligence and security services against Lithuania and our citizens.”

Additionally, the Interior Ministry announced a gradual reduction in permits issued to Belarusian and Lithuanian carriers operating regular international bus passenger services.

Last year, approximately 3.9 million individuals crossed the Lithuanian-Belarusian border through road checkpoints, with 66% being Belarusian citizens.

This move follows Lithuania’s closure of two border crossings in August 2023 due to similar concerns.

Source: Newsroom

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