Lithuania: Underground tunnel found for migrant entry from Belarus

Lithuanian border guards have once again uncovered an underground tunnel designed to facilitate the illegal entry of migrants from neighboring Belarus. Authorities announced the discovery, which adds to ongoing tensions between the two countries over migration flows.

The unfinished tunnel was found approximately 1.5 meters below ground, dug under the border fence and reinforced with tree trunks and planks. It lacked an exit on the Lithuanian side, suggesting it was still under construction when discovered. The entrance on the Belarusian side was reportedly camouflaged.

Lithuania has consistently accused Belarus of deliberately organizing the transport of migrants from crisis-affected regions to the European Union's external borders. In response, Vilnius has bolstered its border security, including the construction of a physical fence.

This latest discovery follows the uncovering of two other tunnels along the Belarus-Lithuania border in recent weeks. Reports also indicate that Lithuanian border guards have faced aggression from groups of migrants attempting to resist apprehension, with some illegal migrants managing to escape back into Belarus. In one such incident, officers were forced to retreat. The Lithuanian Interior Minister has ordered an internal investigation into the handling of this incident, and the Prime Minister has criticized the delayed announcement.