Lithuanian carriers appealed to the European Commission regarding trucks detained in Belarus
The Lithuanian Association of Carriers Linava, which unites part of the country's transport companies, has appealed to the European Commission regarding trucks detained in Belarus and the property damage incurred. According to the organization's estimates, losses could amount to approximately 22 million euros, reports LRT.
Illustrative photo. Photo: Nasha Niva
According to the association, there are currently no fewer than 1,070 detained vehicles belonging to 149 Lithuanian companies on the territory of Belarus. These include 496 tractors and 575 semi-trailers and other equipment. The estimated value of the already identified property is about 15.9 million euros.In addition, six more companies have reported that approximately 401 more transport units may be in Belarus.
If these data are confirmed, the total number of detained vehicles could reach 1,470, and their value — almost 22 million euros.
Previously, Linava representatives stated that the total losses of carriers could reach 100 million euros. According to their information, Belarusian authorities continue to levy additional payments — up to 120 euros per day for each transport unit.
In its appeal to the European Commission, the association urged an official assessment of the situation and possible violations of the economic interests of the European Union, as well as initiating coordinated diplomatic and legal steps for the return of vehicles. Furthermore, it proposed considering mechanisms for compensation for the incurred damage and informing EU countries and carriers about the increased risks of working in Belarus. Linava stated its readiness to provide the European Commission with detailed data on each company and loss calculations.
The crisis situation at the border arose after smuggled balloons flew from Belarus for several months. As a result, the Lithuanian government closed two border crossing points last year. Later, Belarusian authorities banned the movement of Lithuanian trucks through the country's territory, and part of the transport remained in special parking lots with storage fees. Although two checkpoints were later reopened earlier than planned, the detained trucks were not allowed to leave the territory of Belarus.
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