Lithuania to Build Barrier in Border Marshes with Belarus & Russia

In a recent development, Lithuanian authorities have unveiled plans to augment border security by implementing physical barriers in marshy regions adjacent to its borders with Belarus and Russia.

These plans were revealed during a meeting attended by Lithuanian Minister of Interior Agnė Bilotaitė, the Minister of the Environment, and the Deputy Director of the State Protected Services.

The decision to install physical barriers comes as a response to the rising incidence of irregular border crossings this year, as reported by SchengenVisaInfo.com. Minister Bilotaitė disclosed that approximately 700 migrants attempting to enter Lithuania irregularly were intercepted in marshy border areas with Belarus. Additionally, 13 instances of smuggling have been detected in the same region since the beginning of the year.

Minister Bilotaitė emphasized the necessity of these enhanced border protection measures, stating:

“Additional border protection measures are necessary because this year alone, about 700 illegal migrants were not allowed in marshy areas on the border with Belarus, and 13 cases of smuggling were detected.”

Importantly, the Lithuanian Ministry of Interior clarified that these measures would not necessitate any deforestation, as the physical barriers will be placed within the existing border strip. Furthermore, Minister Bilotaitė assured that environmental experts have thoroughly assessed the potential ecological impact, affirming that it would be minimal. She stated:

“We do this very responsibly, together with environmental protection specialists, assessing the possible impact on nature. We received assurances from environmentalists that the impact on nature will be minimal.”

Lithuania has been steadily increasing its border monitoring capabilities, particularly in response to hybrid attacks from Belarus and the Russian incursion into Ukraine. In addition to the plans for marshy areas, Lithuania intends to reestablish coast border patrols to enhance sea border protection.

Minister Bilotaitė underscored the importance of safeguarding both the sea border and the border with Russia in the current climate, expressing the need for preparedness against potential hybrid attacks and surges in irregular migration.

Source: schengenvisainfo.com