Lithuania and US discuss easing restrictions on Belarusian potash fertilizers

Lithuanian and US officials are in discussions about potentially relaxing restrictions on Belarusian potash fertilizers, according to Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys. Speaking on the country's LRT radio on May 26, Budrys confirmed that the matter is under active consideration between the two countries and is part of their ongoing diplomatic agenda. However, he stressed that current sanctions against Belarus and its potash fertilizer sector remain firmly in place until the end of February 2027.

Budrys emphasized that while talks are progressing, there is no indication of imminent policy changes at the European Union level. He noted that the EU currently sees no basis for reconsidering its position on the restrictions. The discussions come as part of broader considerations about international trade and sanctions policy, though the specific details and timeline for any potential easing remain unclear.

Lithuania's current stance on Belarusian fertilizers stems from earlier sanctions measures. In February 2022, amid the broader international sanctions regime against Belarus, Lithuania's government terminated its transit agreement for Belarusian fertilizers, citing national security concerns. The country has maintained its position on restrictions ever since, though the new discussions with the United States suggest possible flexibility if broader diplomatic conditions change.