US Urges Lithuania to Reopen Fertiliser Trade Route for Belarus Amid Sanctions

The United States is pressuring Lithuania to reopen its port for Belarusian fertiliser exports amidst ongoing EU sanctions. Despite US involvement, Lithuania remains committed to EU sanctions. Belarus used Klaipeda port to export potash, its major earner, but EU restrictions are valid until 2027.

The United States has intensified efforts to persuade Lithuania to allow the use of its main port by Belarus for exporting fertiliser, despite these exports currently being subject to EU sanctions. Lithuania's foreign minister, Kestutis Budrys, acknowledged the pressure from the U.S., noting a shift in the situation.

Amidst these developments, Budrys asserted Lithuania's commitment to EU sanctions against Belarus and indicated no intention to resume exports as long as these remain in force. The U.S. embassy in Vilnius has yet to comment on the matter.

Lithuania had halted exports by Belaruskali in 2022 following sanctions imposed by the U.S. over political issues in Belarus. While the U.S. lifted some sanctions in March, the EU's constraints remain active until February 2027, possibly impacting future trade dynamics.