Lithuania hands note of protest to Belarusian envoy over hybrid attacks, seized assets

Lithuania summoned the Belarusian chargé d'affaires to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on December 9 to deliver a diplomatic note of protest over ongoing hybrid attacks originating from Belarusian territory. 

The Lithuanian government also expressed concerns over the forcible detention of assets belonging to EU citizens and companies, Caliber.Az reports via the statement by the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry. 

Lithuania reiterated its call for Belarus to take effective control of its airspace and return illegally seized assets. Despite Lithuania's repeated offers for technical discussions, including an invitation extended during the OSCE Ministerial Council meeting in Vienna on December 4, Belarus refused to engage, citing dissatisfaction with the proposed diplomatic level of the talks.

The Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed regret over Belarus' refusal to cooperate, highlighting the country's lack of willingness to address key issues.

Lithuania remains open to constructive dialogue, but emphasised that Belarus must address specific conditions outlined in the EU’s 2020 and 2024 Council Conclusions. These include ending human rights violations, releasing political prisoners, ensuring safe conditions for exiles, and holding free and fair elections under international observation.

Lithuania has called on Belarus to take concrete steps toward meeting these conditions to facilitate renewed political engagement and cooperation.

By Sabina Mammadli