Headline: Lithuania Temporarily Closes Checkpoints with Belarus Amid Rising Tensions, Concerns of Russian Mercenaries
Date: [Date]
Lithuania has taken the decision to temporarily close two of its six checkpoints with Belarus as tensions with its eastern neighbor continue to escalate. In a move to ensure the safety and security of its borders, the crossings at Tverecius and Sumskas will be shut down, with traffic being diverted to the Medininkai border checkpoint – the largest among Lithuania’s six checkpoints.
One of the primary reasons behind this move is growing unease over the presence of Russia-linked Wagner Group mercenaries in Belarus. Rustamas Liubajevas, commander of the Lithuanian State Border Guard Service, has estimated that there could be up to 4,500 Wagner fighters stationed in Belarus, some of whom are located dangerously close to the Lithuanian and Polish borders. This has prompted concerns over the potential implications for regional stability and security.
It’s not just Lithuania that is taking action. Latvia, Lithuania’s neighboring country, is also mobilizing additional border guards to strengthen the protection of its external state border. The increased hybrid threat observed at the Latvian-Belarusian border has necessitated this step to safeguard its territory.
Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko’s regime has been accused of using migration as a tool of hybrid warfare against neighboring countries. Lithuania, in particular, has witnessed a substantial influx of migrants from Belarus, with thousands of individuals being denied entry since the beginning of this year. This influx has further heightened concerns over security and strained resources in Lithuania.
The situation has also escalated tensions between Poland and Belarus, leading to Poland’s deployment of thousands of troops to its border with Belarus. These moves reflect the gravity of the situation and the determination of neighboring countries to protect their borders and ensure the safety of their citizens.
As the situation continues to develop, Lithuania remains vigilant and has taken necessary measures to address the emerging challenges. The temporary closure of two checkpoints with Belarus underscores the country’s commitment to safeguarding its borders and maintaining regional stability.
The situation in the region is subject to ongoing monitoring, and it remains to be seen how tensions will evolve in the coming days. Lithuania, along with its neighboring countries, will closely observe developments and take appropriate actions to ensure peace and security in the region.
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