Lithuania may ban Russian transit to Kaliningrad region – Foreign Minister
Lithuania may halt Russian transit to the Kaliningrad region for security reasons, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys said on LRT Radio.
According to him, the country could take such a step following the closure of its border with Belarus, after dozens of balloons carrying contraband disrupted flights across Lithuania.
"We reserve the right to suspend transit if necessary to ensure our security. Of course, this would be done in coordination with EU institutions and member states," Budrys said.
He noted that Vilnius could shut down the transit route — crucial for maintaining Russia’s connection with its exclave — if evidence emerges of the Kremlin’s involvement in the hybrid attack from Belarus.
"No one can restrict Lithuania’s national security measures or our right to act to prevent threats, and to protect our citizens, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. If needed, we will take all necessary steps to ensure security," the minister added.
Under an agreement between the European Union and Russia, Russian freight and passenger trains, as well as vehicles, are allowed to transit through Lithuania to and from the Kaliningrad region.
- On October 24, Lithuania temporarily closed its border with Belarus and suspended operations at two airports after the appearance of weather balloons carrying contraband. A similar incident occurred on October 22.
- On October 26, the Lithuanian prime minister proposed closing the border with Belarus for an extended period and restricting transit to Kaliningrad.
- That evening, the fourth such incident in a week forced the temporary closure of Vilnius Airport and the indefinite shutdown of two border crossings with Belarus.
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