Lithuania has closed its border with Belarus due to recurring airspace violations, particularly involving helium balloons entering Lithuanian airspace. Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene described these incidents as a test of the European Union and NATO’s resilience against hybrid threats, calling for a united response. She indicated that Lithuania’s military is prepared to take necessary action, including shooting down balloons if needed.
In protest, Belarus’s Foreign Ministry issued a letter claiming the border closure violates citizen rights and freedom of movement, emphasizing its willingness for dialogue. Recently, balloons, some carrying smuggled cigarettes, have been used by Belarusian smugglers to breach Lithuanian airspace.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned these violations as destabilizing provocations, asserting solidarity with Lithuania. The situation comes amid heightened alerts in Europe due to multiple incursions into NATO airspace, including the downing of a Russian drone by Poland and a recent Russian drone breach in Romania. NATO has increased its military presence in Eastern Europe to counter threats, while European leaders are pressuring Russia to end its war in Ukraine.
Source link
