Vilnius will block the transport of microelectronics and semiconductors to Russia and Belarus for another year
Photo: EPA
The Lithuanian government has extended for another year the temporary ban on the land transport of certain dual-use goods through Lithuania, which could end up in Russia and Belarus and be used in the war against Ukraine. This was announced by LTR publication.
On December 29, the Lithuanian government supported the initiative of the Lithuanian Ministry of Economy and Innovation to extend the export control over relevant goods, introduced in 2023, until January 2, 2027.
“By expanding export control measures, we aim to ensure the effective application of international sanctions and reduce the risk of their circumvention. This is an important step in strengthening our security and the security of all of Europe,” said Vice-Minister Paulius Petrauskas.
According to the report, the measures introduced have helped to reduce the supply of such goods to Russia and Belarus, but the risks of circumventing sanctions remain, which is why it was decided to extend their validity.
In addition, additional export control tools are being prepared for high-priority goods with an increased level of risk, in accordance with the requirements of EU regulations.
In June 2023, the Lithuanian government banned the transit through Lithuania of 57 groups of dual-use goods – primarily products with microelectronic and semiconductor components.
In November of the same year, the list was expanded to include various mechanical devices, optical and semiconductor media, lithium cells and batteries, freight vehicles, and barometers.