Russian FM cautions over Kaliningrad transit
(MENAFN) Russia has cautioned Lithuania against taking what it called “provocative steps” regarding transit to the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, according to reports. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday that there should be “no doubt” about Russia’s readiness to defend the interests of the western region.
The warning followed a proposal by Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda on Sunday to impose long-term restrictions on transit to Kaliningrad, citing concerns over alleged smuggling via meteorological balloons launched from Belarus, a close Russian ally.
Zakharova emphasized Lithuania’s obligations under the 2002 agreement between Russia and the EU to ensure uninterrupted transit. “No one should have any doubt that Russia will, under any circumstances, meet the needs of its westernmost region,” she stated.
Kaliningrad, situated between Lithuania and Poland, depends on rail and road connections through Lithuania to reach the rest of Russia. Following the escalation of the Ukraine conflict in 2022, Vilnius blocked the transit of EU-sanctioned goods, prompting Moscow to accuse Lithuania of imposing a blockade. Partial resolution restored rail traffic, while at least two crossings continue to serve cars and pedestrians.
Lithuania recently announced an indefinite suspension of border crossings with Belarus, effective Wednesday, citing the alleged balloon threat. Belarusian officials condemned the restrictions, warning that travelers now face uncertainty.
The measures come amid incidents involving small weather balloons allegedly used to smuggle tobacco products from Belarus, which Lithuanian authorities say have caused disruptions, including flight delays at Vilnius International Airport.
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