Belarus opposition leader pushes for Europe travel reforms after prison release

Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė met with Belarusian opposition figure Maria Kolesnikova on 3 February. The meeting came shortly after Kolesnikova's release following more than five years in prison. During their discussion, proposals for easing travel between Lithuania and Belarus were raised.

Kolesnikova suggested reopening the Minsk-Vilnius passenger rail line and updating cross-border bus connections. She also called on Lithuania and other European nations to back U.S. initiatives concerning Belarus. However, Šimonytė made it clear that Lithuania currently sees no way to implement these mobility measures.

Belarus has faced severe political unrest since the 2020 protests. Lukashenko's government has intensified crackdowns, jailing tens of thousands, including activist Nasta Loika, who received a seven-year sentence in 2023. Hundreds of thousands have fled the country, leaving society deeply split between regime supporters and opponents.

Travel restrictions have tightened under what critics call a new 'Iron Curtain'. EU visas are now nearly impossible to obtain without costly package tours. Sanctions have also disrupted business and legal ties between Belarus and Europe. Despite this, some opposition figures, including Kolesnikova, still advocate for dialogue with the regime. Relations with European countries remain strained, with Belarus growing increasingly dependent on Russia.

Kolesnikova's proposals highlight ongoing challenges for Belarusian citizens seeking freedom of movement. The meeting underscored the deep divisions in Belarus and the limited options for improving cross-border travel. For now, Lithuania's position remains firm—no changes to mobility policies are expected.