Latvia Implements Ban on Belarus-Registered Cars

Latvia has announced a new measure barring Belarus-registered passenger cars from entering its territory from Belarus or Russia, citing alignment with recent EU sanctions.

Effective Tuesday, the decision aims to synchronize penalties on Belarus with those on Russia, as confirmed by Latvia’s State Revenue Service. Last year, neighboring EU states Poland, Estonia, Lithuania, and Finland, along with non-EU member Norway, similarly restricted vehicles bearing Russian license plates in connection with sanctions related to the war in Ukraine.

In response, Belarus' Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized Latvia’s move, describing it as inhumane. Anatoly Glaz, the ministry’s spokesperson, expressed concern that the ban would particularly impact cross-border families, visitors, and tourists, complicating cultural and humanitarian exchanges between the two countries.

Glaz emphasized Belarus' disappointment with Latvia’s decision, asserting that Belarus has no intention to retaliate against Latvian citizens and remains committed to fostering bilateral relations under its visa waiver program for Latvians.