Lithuania proposes new sanctions on Russians and Belarusians: restrict real estate purchases, ban supporters

Lithuania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has proposed new sanctions targeting Russian and Belarusian citizens, including restrictions on purchasing real estate near strategic sites and banning cultural, educational, and sports figures who support the war in Ukraine, BNS reports.

The proposed amendments to the national sanctions law would prevent individuals and representatives of organizations from Russia and Belarus from engaging in public activities in Lithuania in the fields of education, science, culture, sports, arts, and entertainment if they are linked to aggression against Ukraine.

According to the ministry, the restrictions aim to prevent the use of cultural or entertainment activities for propaganda, historical distortion, or political influence. The measures would apply to those who operate in Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories, support the war, or undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and stability.

Under the draft, those seeking to enter Lithuania for educational, cultural, or sports activities would be required to sign a public declaration condemning Russia’s aggression, supporting the UN Charter, and affirming Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity. Refusal to sign would result in denial of entry.

Russians and Belarusians not linked to such activities could still participate in Lithuania as neutral individuals, provided they do not represent their home countries. Organizers of public events in the specified sectors would be responsible for enforcing the restrictions.

The proposal also includes limiting the ability of Russian and Belarusian citizens with residency permits to purchase real estate near strategically important objects.

The ministry stated that the measures aim to create a clear legal framework to strengthen resistance to hostile regimes and protect Lithuania’s national security interests.