Latvian Prime Minister refutes claims concerning potential easing of penalties against Lukashenko.
In a striking development, both Lithuania and Latvia have set the record straight in the face of dubious online rumors.
Catching wind of rumors circulating on social media that the United States supposedly pledged renewed access to ports in Latvia and Lithuania to Belarus, Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa swiftly squashed the speculation. During an interview with the media, she unequivocally asserted that decisions regarding Latvian ports are the sole domain of the Latvian government, as reported by TVP.
"Allow me to make it crystal clear: decisions regarding ports are the exclusive jurisdiction of the Latvian government," Siliņa asserted on Wednesday.
Hold the Line on Sanctions
Siliņa reassured the public that there have been no adjustments to the sanctions imposed on Belarus. She emphasized the importance of maintaining sanctions as a top priority for the Latvian government, especially as it pertains to restrictions on the "shadow fleet" of Russia.
"We must not permit Russia to fund its military apparatus, which also depends heavily on Belarus," the Prime Minister stressed.
Lithuania Adds Fuel to the Fire
Aligning with Latvia's stance, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Navickas swiftly debunked information suggesting negotiations were in the works to soften sanctions against Belarus.
Recent developments also indicate that neither country is planning to loosen their grip. In fact, Latvia has ratcheted up the pressure. By adopting a law as recently as June 19, 2025, Russian and Belarusian citizens, as well as companies with substantial Russian or Belarusian ownership, are now prohibited from purchasing real estate in Latvia, a move primarily geared towards curtailing the influence and presence of these nationals and entities in the country for national security reasons, with limited exceptions for particular groups[2].
United Front Against Belarus
Lithuania, too, has upped the ante. Recognizing the possibility of the European Union failing to extend its own measures, they have amended their legislation to allow for the imposition of national economic sanctions on Russia and Belarus. This empowers the Lithuanian government to freeze assets and restrict exports of goods, technologies, and services that could benefit the Belarusian or Russian military or industry[1][3][5].
Lithuania is working in tandem with other Baltic states to maintain a united stance, and there is no indication of any intention to ease sanctions. In light of these updates, it's safe to say that both countries are solidifying—not lifting—sanctions and restrictions against Belarus. Any misleading chatter peddled on social media to the contrary is not grounded in current policy actions or official statements.
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[1] [1] - News Source 1[2] [2] - News Source 2[3] [3] - News Source 3[5] [5] - News Source 5
"The Lithuanian Foreign Minister, Kęstutis Navickas, has stated that there are no negotiations underway to soften sanctions against Belarus, echoing Latvia's stance."
"As both Lithuania and Latvia continue to reinforce their sanctions on Belarus, any misinformation about easing these restrictions should be regarded with skepticism, as it contradicts recent policy-and-legislation announcements and general-news reports."
