Lithuania Strengthens Border Controls: Closure of Two Customs Checkpoints with Belarus for One Month
On Wednesday, October 29, the Lithuanian government made a significant decision to tighten border security along its border with Belarus.
In a move aimed at preventing potential threats and stabilizing the situation, Lithuania announced the temporary closure of two key border crossing points: ‘Šalčininkai’ and ‘Medininkai’.
This measure will take effect immediately and last until at least November 30, with the possibility of extension if necessary.
The ‘Šalčininkai’ crossing will be fully closed, while the ‘Medininkai’ checkpoint will operate partially with specific exceptions.
Minister of Internal Affairs Vladislav Kondratovich stated that transit through ‘Medininkai’ would be permitted for diplomats, transit vehicles from Kaliningrad, citizens returning to Lithuania, and residents of the EU, NATO, and their families.
Additionally, humanitarian crossings will be allowed based on decisions by the State Border Guard Service.
Further exceptions include citizens of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, representatives of the Holy See, Ukraine, their families, and technical staff of diplomatic missions of these countries in Belarus, all of whom are Belarusian citizens.
It is worth noting that last year, the border points Lavorischex and Rėigarėdas were closed, and other crossings had ceased operations in 2023.
Lithuanian Foreign Minister clarified that Vilnius reserves the right to halt transit to and from Kaliningrad in response to the closure of the Belarusian border and the situation with meteorological balloons, viewing it as part of broader security initiatives.
The Foreign Minister emphasized that Lithuania seeks to overcome a ‘slave mentality’ towards Belarus and is committed to ensuring its security and stability.