Lawmakers approved another extension of national measures, introducing a new cap on cross border fuel deliveries. The decision deepens Lithuania’s pressure on aggressor states.
On Thursday, the Seimas of Lithuania extended the nationwide sanctions against the citizens of Russia and Belarus until the end of 2027.
95 members of the Seimas voted in favor of the extension, one voted against, six abstained.
Following the government’s proposal, the same restrictive measures are maintained, however one new provision has been introduced – a ban on importing more than 200 liters of fuel into Lithuania by vehicles from Russia and Belarus.
Key Provisions of the Law and Its Impact
The sanctions law aims to demonstrate support for Ukraine and restrict certain rights of citizens of the aggressor countries – Russia and Belarus. The law has been in effect in Lithuania since 2023.
Under the law, applications from Russian and Belarusian citizens for both national and Schengen visas are no longer accepted, except in cases where the application is submitted by the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Russian citizens are no longer issued residence permits in Lithuania if they do not hold a valid visa or a residence permit in an EU country.
The law bans Russian citizens who do not have a residence permit in Lithuania from buying real estate. In addition, Russian citizens may lose their temporary residence permit in Lithuania if, during the last three calendar months, they visit Russia or Belarus more than once. An exception is made only for carriers and individuals traveling for objective reasons beyond their control.
According to Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Rugienė, Lithuania will not lift sanctions against Russia and Belarus until Ukraine’s territorial integrity is fully restored and all damages caused by the war are fully compensated.
Such steps emphasize Lithuania’s firm stance in supporting Ukraine and further isolating the relevant countries across various areas – from migration rules to economic restrictions. The sanctions regime will continue at least until 2027.