New tensions between Moscow and the West are rising after Lithuania decided to halt the transport of some goods through its territory to the Russian region of Kaliningrad as part of European Union sanctions on the Kremlin. The Kremlin warns it will retaliate against the sanctions, stemming from its invasion of Ukraine, in a way that will have a “significant negative impact” on the Lithuanian people, raising fears of a direct confrontation between Russia and NATO. Nikolai Patrushev, the powerful secretary of Russia’s Security Council, visited the region earlier this week and will present his report to President Vladimir Putin, who will determine Russia’s response.
EXPLAINER: Why Russia-Lithuania tensions are rising
