Lithuania's New Tactic Against Russia's Encroachment

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Audronius Azubalis in a May 14 interview discussed the European Union's Eastern Partnership, in particular member country Belarus (and to a certain extent Ukraine). Azubalis said that rather than continuing to support the Belarusian opposition, "Together with our American friends, we should start thinking about a transitional council." Azubalis said, "We should create an alternative power center in Belarus."

Azubalis' statement shows that Lithuania wants to change its strategy regarding one of its most important international interests: Russia's resurgence in Lithuania's neighboring countries, particularly in Belarus. Azubalis' statements also reflect Lithuania's frustration with EU policy toward Belarus and other Eastern Partnership countries and with the divergent interests within the European Union.