Lithuanian minister called discussions on fertilizer transit from Belarus a waste of time — LRT
Lithuanian Transport Minister Juras Taminskas officially stated that any discussions regarding the possible resumption of transit of Belarusian potash fertilizers through the country’s territory are completely futile.
The official urged the European community not to succumb to provocations and rumors regarding changes to sanctions policy.
This strong reaction from the official came amid media reports that the U.S. is allegedly urging the governments of the Baltic states to review current logistical restrictions on Belarus.
The head of the Lithuanian agency made it clear that the European Union’s sanctions against Belarusian exports remain fully in effect and will not be lifted in the near future.
Regional partners continue to adhere to a consolidated European position to exert maximum economic pressure on the regime in Minsk.
Juras Taminskas noted that the legal framework for the restrictions is stable, and any attempts to circumvent or weaken the existing rules will be blocked at the state level.
“EU sanctions are in effect and remain in force until next February. Last year, during discussions regarding Belarusian fertilizers, I said that I was 100% certain the sanctions would be extended. There is no point in wasting time on empty talk or speculation regarding fertilizer transportation,” he said.
Separately, the Lithuanian minister commented on rumors of possible railway or port blackmail and refuted reports of behind-the-scenes demands to restore logistics routes.
The minister assured the public that no foreign state or international organization had attempted to influence the sovereign decisions of the official Vilnius.
Lithuania remains a reliable link in the pan-European security system and in countering hybrid threats.
LRT reports on this.
The European Parliament has supported import duties on fertilizers and agricultural products from Russia and Belarus
As a reminder, the United States and Europe will significantly tighten sanctions against Russia if Russian dictator Vladimir Putin does not engage in peace talks with Ukraine “in a spirit of goodwill.”
U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he would impose sanctions against Russia if negotiations with Ukraine fail. The new restrictions will be devastating for Russia.
