Russians increasingly use a rail loophole via Kaliningrad to enter the EU, prompting Lithuanian countermeasures.

As of January 22, 2024, increasing numbers of Russians have been using a loophole in the rail transit route from mainland Russia to Kaliningrad to enter the European Union via Lithuania. This unexpected migration flow is causing Lithuania to scramble and implement countermeasures to curb the influx. The development highlights Russia's utilization of travel vulnerabilities to influence European border and migration security. The issue reflects broader concerns about hybrid warfare tactics encompassing population pressure through weaponized migration. Lithuania’s actions to stem the flow illustrate defensive responses to this emerging security challenge.