Lithuania tightens border rules with Belarus - Reason
Photo: Belarusian special services have intensified provocations on the border with Lithuania (Getty Images)
Lithuania strengthens border security and introduces new restrictions at checkpoints due to provocations from Belarus, according to the website of the Lithuanian government.
The government of the Republic of Lithuania has approved a draft decree prepared by the Ministry of the Interior that introduces new restrictions at border checkpoints. The decision is due to the increased threats to national security related to illegal immigration, as well as changes in the tactics of Belarusian intelligence and border services.
According to the decision, crossing the border from Belarus on motorcycles, mopeds, and motorized bicycles will be prohibited at the Šalčininkai and Medininkai checkpoints. Traffic will only be allowed via motor vehicles.
The government also proposes temporarily restricting border crossing at these points if instances of Belarusian officials using migrants are detected. The restrictions were imposed due to attempts by Belarusian border guards to direct individuals without proper documents or who do not meet the Schengen Border Code requirements to the border with Lithuania.
The government warns that without new legal regulations, there could be conditions for a massive flow of illegal immigration through official border checkpoints with Belarus.
Currently, Lithuania employs comprehensive border security measures: a physical barrier has been established on the Belarusian border, a modern monitoring system is in place, and rapid responses to incidents are ensured. This prevents illegal crossings of the so-called "green" border.
Lithuania's fight against Russian influence
Lithuania continues its active fight against potential pro-Russian agents.
On April 16, the country's government banned the admission of Lithuanian citizens with Russian, Belarusian, or Chinese passports, as well as individuals without Lithuanian citizenship, to the General Jonas Žemaitis Military Academy.
Lithuania is also preparing for a new wave of Russian sabotage activities.
Recently, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys stated in an interview with RBC-Ukraine that he does not doubt that Russia is preparing for war against the Baltic States.
