On Monday, December 29, the Lithuanian government decided to extend for one year the ban on transit through its territory of certain dual-use goods that could be used by Russian or Belarusian entities in the war against Ukraine. The new measure will be in effect until January 2, 2027.
“Continuing 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 Europe.”
– Paulius Petrauskas
The ministry explained that the current measure has already reduced the volume of such goods supplied to Russia and Belarus. However, authorities expect that the risk of sanctions circumvention remains, which is why the extension of the restrictions was adopted.
In addition, the country plans to introduce additional export control measures for high-priority goods with increased risk levels in line with EU regulations.
As a reminder, in June 2023 Lithuania banned transit through its territory of 57 groups of dual-use goods – predominantly products with microelectronic and semiconductor components. In November of that year, the list was expanded: mechanical devices, optical and semiconductor carriers, lithium elements and batteries, transport vehicles for goods, and barometers were added.
Context and implications for the region
Such steps underscore Lithuania’s focus on strengthening controls over dual-use goods and aligning with the EU regulatory framework. Experts emphasize that expanding the list and the duration of the restrictions make it harder to circumvent sanctions and support the European approach to deterring aggression in the context of the war against Ukraine.
In short, Lithuania continues to refine export control tools, focusing on the most vulnerable goods. This is part of the broader EU strategy to deter the use of critically important technologies in the conflict against Ukraine.