Lithuania may reopen two border checkpoints with Belarus

Lithuania’s government is set to consider reopening two border checkpoints with Belarus that were closed last month, Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė has said.

The proposal follows a recommendation from the National Security Council (NSC), which met on November 18 to assess the current security situation, Caliber.Az reports via Lithuanian media.

Ruginienė said the Government would discuss the issue at its meeting on November 19.

“In recent days, the situation regarding smuggled gas cylinders has been relatively stable, with only small quantities recorded,” the Prime Minister said.

“If this continues, I personally support reopening the border, though the final decision rests with the Government.”

Ruginienė added that if the Government approves the measure, the checkpoints could reopen within 24 hours, allowing for necessary preparations. She also stressed that the authorities retain the right to re-close the borders if the situation deteriorates.

The two checkpoints were closed last month amid concerns over cross-border smuggling and security threats. The move to potentially reopen them reflects an easing of those concerns, according to the Prime Minister.

Opposition MPs have criticised the Government over its handling of Lithuanian trucks stranded in Belarus, pointing to Ruginienė’s responsibility in the matter.

By Aghakazim Guliyev