- While the Cybertruck is not sold in Russia, there is already at least one Foundation series model on local roads.
- Sanctions ban the import of cars worth more than 50,000 euros from the European Union to Russia.
- People seeking to avoid sanctions often try to pass vehicles through Belarus, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
Lithuanian authorities have seized two Tesla Cybertrucks suspected of being part of an illegal import operation into Russia and possibly violating international sanctions. It seems like these Cold War tensions never really went out of style… for some
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The two cybertrucks were stopped while crossing the Šalčininkai border checkpoint between Lithuania and Belarus, raising suspicions among officials who believe they may have subsequently been transported to Russia.
Read: Tesla Cybertruck Foundation Series Gets Tactical Gray Interior and Increased Range with New Tires
Following the escalation of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, sanctions were imposed on Russia, banning the export of cars worth more than 50,000 euros (about $53,700 at current exchange rates) from the European Union to the country.
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Customs officials in Lithuania estimate that around 50% of vehicles worth over 50,000 euros exported from the EU pass through countries such as Belarus, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan before ending up in Russia.
Authorities from the Vilnius branch of the Customs Criminal Investigation Department have launched an investigation into these Teslas, believing they violate international sanctions. The two cars are currently being stored at the Lithuanian customs office and while the two drivers were questioned, they were later released.
While the Cybertruck is not officially sold in Russia or anywhere else in Europe, a handful of examples have reached the Old Continent. This includes at least one Cybertruck Foundation series that already has a home in Moscow and has recently been featured in several comprehensive YouTube reviews.
It’s unclear how exactly this Cybertruck was imported into Russia, but where there’s a will, there’s a way. We suspect the owner was also willing to pay a hefty premium to drive the electric pickup on local roads.
Due to pedestrian safety regulations, it is unlikely that Tesla will officially sell the Cybertruck in Europe. Even in China and even pickup-friendly markets like Australia, there’s little chance the truck will be sold.
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