Because the decision regarding the ban for Russian ships to enter sea ports in the EU is delayed, Lithuania may make this decision on its own together with other countries of the region, said Lithuanian Minister of Transport Marius Skuodis on Thursday, 17 March.
«If these discussions take too long, I think this would become a regional step,» Skuodis told Žiniu radijas radio station.
Although Brussels has had many discussions about sanctions for Russian ships, the final decision has not yet been made, said the minister.
«I can only voice my disappointment, because I believe we should do this much sooner,» said Skuodis.
He added that Lithuania may impose a nation-wide ban for Russian ships to enter Klaipeda sea port. However, to make such a ban effective, a broader interstate agreement is needed.
Read also: Europe presents fourth stage of sanctions against Russia
«Historically, [the number of Russian ships entering Klaipeda sea port] is small,» said Lithuanian minister of transport.
Following Russia’s attack on Ukraine, the EU has commenced talks about banning ships sailing under the Russian flag or otherwise associated with Russia, private persons and enterprises related to Russia from entering sea ports in Europe.
Representatives of owners of Lithuanian ships and shipping companies told BNS it would be very hard to fully implement such a ban, because it is not always possible to quickly determine a ship’s ties to Russia.
Lithuanian transport minister warns Russian ships may be banned from entering sea ports
