Lithuania rejects Belarus’ conditions for border talks
Lithuania’s Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys has dismissed the idea of holding border negotiations on Belarus’ terms after President Alexander Lukashenko instructed his government to reach out to Vilnius.
“It is not Lukashenko who decides the conditions or determines who should meet with whom,” Budrys told Lithuania’s public broadcaster LRT, emphasizing that Vilnius will act based on its own diplomatic principles and strategies.
The statement follows rising tensions between the two neighbors. Lithuania closed a key border crossing in October, accusing Minsk of facilitating cigarette smuggling via hot air balloons — a claim Belarus denies.
“All border measures are under constant review, taking into account airspace conditions. If the air situation improves, adjustments on the ground will follow,” Budrys said.
He added that Lithuania is not acting alone, highlighting U.S. support and cooperation within the European Unionframework.
“My strong advice is not to accept any pressure from Minsk or follow the narrative they are trying to impose,” the minister concluded.
In response, Lukashenko signed a decree banning Polish and Lithuanian trucks from operating in Belarus until the end of 2027, in what observers see as economic retaliation.
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