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The Baltic nation plans to intercept and destroy aerial devices transporting contraband tobacco across the border, the country's leader announced.

This action responds after balloons entering Lithuanian airspace necessitated airport closures on several occasions recently, with weekend disruptions, while authorities suspended Belarus border crossings temporarily each time.

International border access continues restricted due to the ongoing aerial incidents.

The government leader stated, "our nation stands prepared to implement even the most severe actions during unauthorized aerial intrusions."

Government Response

Announcing the actions at a press conference, Ruginiene said the army was taking "every required action" to shoot down balloons.

Concerning border measures, the Prime Minister confirmed diplomatic movement continues for cross-border diplomatic missions, while European Union nationals and Lithuanian residents retain entry rights, however general movement continues suspended.

"Through these actions, we communicate to Belarus stating that asymmetric operations face opposition within our territory, and we'll implement maximum countermeasures to halt these operations," government officials declared.

Official communications saw no quick answer from the neighboring government.

Alliance Coordination

Authorities will discuss with international allies about the security challenges presented with possible discussions about implementing the alliance's consultation mechanism - a protocol allowing member state consultation regarding security matters, particularly involving territorial protection - officials noted.

Travel Impacts

Aviation hubs faced multiple shutdowns during holiday periods from balloon incidents originating from neighboring territory, disrupting air transport and passenger movement, per transportation authority data.

In recent weeks, 25 balloons entered Lithuania from Belarus, causing dozens of flight disruptions impacting thousands, according to emergency management officials.

These incidents continue previous patterns: by autumn measurements, 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 - including in Copenhagen and Munich - have also been affected by air incursions, with unauthorized drone observations, during current period.