National Security

Lithuania at unexpected forefront in Belarus democracy push

By Abraham Mahshie
Published September 23, 2020 5:48pm ET
Add Washington Examiner on Google
Lithuania at unexpected forefront in Belarus democracy push
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius told the Washington Examiner that his nation did not choose to be a leader in the pro-democracy effort in Belarus, but it cannot stand idly and watch the human rights violations and oppression across its border. | Photo by Abraham Mahshie

VILNIUS, Lithuania — A white and red Belarusian flag is draped over an angel statue outside the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry building in Vilnius.

The symbol of this Baltic capital also reflects Lithuania’s unexpected role as chief harbinger of democratic transition in the Russia-aligned nation suffering widespread human rights abuses just 20 miles across its southern border.

Print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account
Digital subscriber? Click here to login/register your account.

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.

Tag:

Baltic States Belarus Democracy Department of Defense (Department of War) European Union Lithuania Mike Pompeo Pentagon Russia Sanctions State Department