🔗 Share this article

Authorities have decided to intercept and destroy aerial devices transporting contraband tobacco across the border, government officials confirmed.

The measure comes after unauthorized aerial incursions disrupted air traffic repeatedly in recent days, affecting holiday travel, while authorities suspended cross-border movement during each incident.

Border checkpoints will now be closed indefinitely following repeated balloon incursions.

According to official declarations, "we are ready to take even the most severe actions during unauthorized aerial intrusions."

Government Response

Outlining the strategy to media, officials stated defense units were executing "all necessary measures" to intercept unauthorized devices.

Concerning border measures, the Prime Minister confirmed diplomatic movement continues across the international border, and EU citizens and Lithuanians can enter from Belarus, however general movement continues suspended.

"In this way, we are sending a signal to foreign authorities stating that asymmetric operations face opposition within our territory, and we'll implement maximum countermeasures to halt these operations," she said.

There has been no immediate response from Belarus.

International Consultation

Lithuania plans to consult its allies over the threat posed from the balloons and may discuss activating the NATO consultation clause - a request for consultation by a Nato member country regarding security matters, specifically concerning defense matters - she added.

Airport Disruptions

Aviation hubs faced multiple shutdowns over the weekend because of aerial devices crossing the international border, impacting over hundred flights and thousands of travelers, per transportation authority data.

During the current month, 25 balloons entered Lithuania from Belarus, causing dozens of flight disruptions impacting thousands, according to emergency management officials.

These incidents continue previous patterns: as of 6 October, numerous unauthorized objects tracked entering airspace from neighboring territory during current year, according to official statements, while 966 were recorded last year.

International Perspective

Additional aviation facilities - covering northern and central European sites - have also been affected by air incursions, involving unmanned aerial vehicles, in recent weeks.