Lithuania reports increase in attempts to circumvent sanctions against Russia and Belarus
Illustrative photo (freepik.com)
The number of attempts to circumvent the sanctions imposed on Russia and Belarus has increased significantly in Lithuania. Despite efforts to stop such actions and punish those responsible, it is becoming increasingly difficult to deal with these violations, according to Lithuanian Prosecutor General Nida Grunskienė.
Currently, there are about 50 pre-trial investigations related to the circumvention of sanctions, and decisions have already been made in some of them.
"Right now, if I'm not mistaken, there are about 50 pre-trial investigations underway. I know that decisions have been made in some of them. This number shows that attempts to circumvent are increasing and difficulties are arising. But we are working in this direction," she said.
One of the cases involving arms smuggling has already been sent to court, Grunskienė reported.
EU sanctions against Russia
EU countries have so far adopted 14 packages of sanctions targeting Russia for its aggression in Ukraine. Trade restrictions have also been imposed on Belarus to prevent the Moscow regime from evading the restrictions.
Earlier, Lithuanian customs officers filed a protocol on a sanctions violation against a company engaged in car exports to Russia. A company registered in Lithuania was fined 13.6 million euros.
In addition, a large-scale investigation has begun in Lithuania into violations of international sanctions and smuggling of goods to Russia. Seven individuals and four legal entities are suspects.
