**Lithuania Takes Tough Stance Against Russian and Belarusian Citizens**
On May 3, Lithuania implemented new restrictions on Russian and Belarusian citizens, reported Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). The move is a significant escalation in the country’s efforts to distance itself from Russia and Belarus. Under the new law, Russian citizens will have their residence permits revoked if they travel back to Russia or Belarus more than once every three months without good reason. This applies to all Russians except for transportation workers and those with valid justifications.
**A Growing Regional Tension**
These restrictions are part of a broader package of sanctions that also include suspending visa applications and banning Russians without residence permits from buying Lithuanian real estate. The move comes as tensions in the region continue to escalate. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently warned about Russia potentially preparing something alarming in Belarus, disguised as military exercises scheduled for September 2025.
**Concerns Over Russian Espionage**
Lithuania has also expressed concerns over potential Russian espionage risks when it lodged a complaint with the European Commission over Hungary’s decision to relax entry requirements for Russian and Belarusian citizens. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis stated that this step by Hungary poses serious security threats to the Schengen area and many European countries.
**A Broader Strategy**
The travel restrictions are part of Lithuania’s broader strategy to distance itself from Russia and Belarus. In October 2024, the Lithuanian parliament voted to terminate three international agreements with Russia and Belarus concerning economic cooperation. The decision was made in response to concerns over national security and the potential threat posed by cooperation with these countries.
**Belarus’ Stance on Ukraine**
Meanwhile, Belarus has taken a different stance towards Ukraine. President Lukashenka recently stated that his country will host more Ukrainian children from Russian-occupied areas, promising to make their childhood happier. He declared them part of the Belarusian family during a charity event in Minsk.
**A Lasting Impact**
All restrictions remain in effect until May 2, 2026. The move is expected to have a lasting impact on relations between Lithuania and Russia/Belarus. As one of the countries most vocal in supporting Ukraine after Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Lithuania is taking a bold stance against its neighbors.
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