The Lithuanian Customs Department reported that its employees can confiscate personal belongings of Russians, depending on how many of them are imported into the territory of the republic. This follows from the department’s response to the Agency.
Lithuanian customs officers will also look at the condition of phones, laptops, as well as packaging of shampoos, cosmetics, clothing and other personal items imported into Lithuania by Russians. The department notes that until further clarification is received from the European Commission, their transportation into the territory of the republic may be prohibited.
In addition, the department's commentary notes that Russians who enter in cars registered in Russia will be allowed to enter Lithuania only for transit to the Kaliningrad region. According to the Lithuanian customs, they are given 24 hours for it. In all other cases, Russians at the border will be warned about the “possible consequences of violating the ban” and will be given the opportunity to “return to the country from which [they] came without any legal consequences.”
According to the Customs Service Department of Lithuania, on September 12, 19 cars with Russian license plates were not allowed into the republic, and during the entire period of restrictions – 36. It is not reported how many cars were able to drive through the territory of Lithuania to the Kaliningrad region.
On September 8, the European Commission issued a clarification according to which Russians, even during tourist trips, will not be able to enter the territory of the European Union with cars registered in Russia or with things that cannot be imported from Russia. Among them are cosmetics, suitcases, leather bags, smartphones and laptops.
Yesterday, September 12, European officials revised this regulation and recommended that customs officers focus on cars. The new clarifications from the European Commission say nothing about a ban on the import of smartphones, laptops and cameras. Regarding personal hygiene items and clothing, it is said that the ban on their import is recommended to be applied in a “proportionate and reasonable manner.”
