Lithuanian border guards turn back nearly 90 illegal migrants from Belarus in one day

Lithuanian border guards continue to face a relentless influx of illegal migrants attempting to cross from Belarus, with recent figures showing a substantial number being turned back. On Thursday alone, 89 foreign nationals were prevented from entering the country, following even higher numbers on Wednesday and Tuesday. This sustained pressure on Lithuania's eastern border underscores the ongoing challenges posed by the orchestrated migration crisis.

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At that time, Lithuanian officials, facing a migrant influx, again turned back many arrivals – 89 foreigners were turned back on Thursday.

In contrast, Poland's border service reported no detections of illegal migrants on Wednesday, highlighting a differing situation along its Belarusian frontier. However, the overall numbers for Lithuania remain stark: over 1,600 individuals were prevented from illegally entering last year, and 724 have been stopped so far this year. Since the crisis began, Lithuania has denied entry to approximately 25,300 illegal migrants.

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Last year, officials prevented more than 1.6 thousand people from illegally entering Lithuania from Belarus; this year – 724.

The situation is a direct consequence of what Western nations have termed the "migration crisis" instigated by the Minsk regime, beginning in 2021. For Lithuania, this is not merely a border security issue; it is a matter of national sovereignty and a direct challenge to the European Union's external borders. The constant flow of migrants, often seen as a tool of political pressure, strains resources and tests the resilience of border control.

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In total, since the beginning of the migration crisis caused by Belarus, about 25.3 thousand illegal migrants have been denied entry into the country.

From Lithuania's perspective, the response must be firm and consistent. While humanitarian concerns are acknowledged, the primary focus remains on safeguarding national borders and preventing destabilization. The narrative within Lithuania often emphasizes the need for solidarity within the EU and robust measures to deter Belarus from weaponizing migration. The continuous efforts by the State Border Guard Service (VSAT) are crucial in maintaining the integrity of the Schengen Area and protecting Lithuania from external pressures.

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Migrants began to flood into the Eastern European Union countries in 2021; the West blamed the Minsk regime for this.