Lithuanian Government Agrees to Extend Sanctions Against Belarus Until 2028

The Lithuanian government has decided to extend national sanctions against Belarus and Russia until the end of 2027. For the decision to enter into force, it must be approved by the Seimas, vz.lt reported.

Lithuania’s Foreign Ministry said that the extension does not contradict the principle of proportionality. In addition, Lithuania will retain the ability to freeze assets and apply restrictive measures if sanctions at the European Union level are lifted.

The Foreign Ministry proposed not to introduce new restrictions but to clarify the procedure for the entry of vehicles. Instead of banning vehicles from Belarus or Russia from entering Lithuania if their fuel tanks contain more than 200 liters of fuel, it is proposed to introduce a ban on importing fuel in vehicle tanks if the volume exceeds 200 liters.

At present, the law on extending sanctions provides for the refusal to accept applications from citizens of Russia and Belarus for national and Schengen visas, except in cases of mediation by the Foreign Ministry. Russians are also denied residence permits if they do not have a valid visa or a residence permit in another EU country.

In addition, there is a ban on submitting applications for electronic residency, on the acquisition of real estate by Russians without a residence permit, as well as on the import and export of cash and the import of agricultural products from Russia and Belarus. The law also provides for the annulment of temporary residence permits for Russian citizens if they have visited Russia or Belarus more than once within three months, with the exception of certain categories.