Lithuania: Demonstrators gather in Vilnius August 23

Event

Tens of thousands gathered to demonstrate in the capital Vilnius on Sunday, August 23, in a show of support for anti-government protests in Belarus. Reportedly, participants formed a human chain stretching more than 30 km (18 mi) to the border with neighbouring Belarus. Organizers claim some 50,000 people attended the rally. Solidarity rallies also took place elsewhere in Europe on Sunday, including Latvia and Estonia.

Sunday reportedly coincided with the anniversary of mass protests on August 23 1989, when two million people joined arms across Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, to denounce Soviet rule.

Further protests are likely in the coming days, along with a heightened security presence. 

Advice

Those in Vilnius are advised to avoid all protests as a precaution, monitor the situation, allow additional travel time in city centres, and heed all instructions issued by local authorities.