Lithuania dismisses Belarus’ criminal case as provocation

June 28, BPN. The Lithuanian interior minister has called the Belarusian criminal case against her compatriots a provocative act aimed at smearing Lithuanian border guards and undermining Lithuania’s international reputation, 15min.lt reports, quoting BNS.

The Belarusian Prosecutor General’s Office accused the “Lithuanian side” of gross violations of refugee rights, spokeswoman Anžalika Kurčak said on social media today.

She blamed Lithuania for deportations and unjustified use of physical force against migrants.

Lithuanian officials deliberately denied them medical care, “which led to serious consequences, including the death of refugees,” Kurčak said.

Lithuanian Interior Minister Agnė Bilotaitė pushed back against the charges, stressing that “Lithuania fulfills its international obligations and respects freedoms and human rights.”

“Foreigners who have illegally crossed or are trying to cross into the Republic of Lithuania are provided with necessary humanitarian assistance,” she added.