The EU has defended Lithuania against Russia’s suspension of its dairy exports.

      At a news conference in Brussels, Frederic Vincent, spokesman for EU Health and Consumer Policy Commissioner, insisted that that the EU Commission has ‘full confidence in the safety of Lithuania's dairy products’.

      Russia’s chief hygiene inspector has slapped a ban on the products citing coliform bacteria, fungus and yeast found in higher than required levels.

      Analysts have always linked these foodstuffs bans with Russia’s desire to lock its neighbours closer to its economy and reluctance to let them stray off to the EU.

      Over the past several months, Ukraine chocolate and Moldova’s wine producers experienced problems on the customs.