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Lithuania has sealed its border with Belarus in response to reports of Russian mercenaries from the Wagner private militia present in the neighboring country. The closure, which took effect on Friday, comes after the Lithuanian government announced on Wednesday that it would be closing two rural crossing points. Although the presence of the Wagner Group mercenaries was not explicitly stated as the reason for the closure, the government cited the evolving geopolitical situation, national security threats, and concerns about smuggling as justification.

Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite confirmed that all border points with Belarus have been closed, with exceptions made for certain humanitarian or diplomatic crossings. She also mentioned the possibility of closing the border crossings between Lithuania and Russia. Top security officials held a meeting with the State Border Guard Service to discuss these options.

Bilotaite emphasized that Lithuania is constantly facing threats from its neighboring region but reassured the public that the country is well-prepared to address these challenges. As a NATO member, Lithuania has heavily invested in its defenses and the security of its people remains a top priority.

Saulius Nekrasevicius, commander of the State Border Guard Service, reported no incidents at the checkpoints following the border closures. This move by Lithuania aligns with reports of discussions among the Baltic countries and Poland regarding a complete closure of borders with Belarus. The details of this proposed border closure will be finalized during a meeting in Warsaw on August 28.

Polish President Andrzej Duda and his Latvian counterpart, Edgars Rinkevics, emphasized the critical importance of security and the situation at the Belarus border after their meeting on Wednesday.

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