Lithuania plans to recognize Circassian genocide

Lithuania intends to recognize the genocide committed against the Circassian people, said Gintaras Songaila, Director of the Lithuanian Media Association and former member of the Lithuanian Seimas.

According to Report's correspondent in Shusha, Songaila made the statement at the conference under the theme Cultural and Ethnic Diversity: Lessons of History, Modern Challenges.

He called on Russia to acknowledge its responsibility for the atrocities committed against the Circassians, noting that in the 19th century, 90% of the Circassian population was subjected to genocide, their homeland destroyed, and survivors dispersed across different regions.

"Today, Circassian culture continues to face persecution and is on the verge of extinction. To my knowledge, Lithuania will soon recognize the genocide committed by the Russian Empire against the Circassians. As a result, Lithuania may raise the issue of recognizing the Circassians' historical homeland within the UN framework," Songaila stated.