Lithuania Takes Drastic Action Against Border Balloon Incursions
Lithuania plans to shoot down smuggler balloons from Belarus, citing them as 'hybrid attacks'. These balloons carry contraband, causing air traffic disruptions. In response, Lithuania closed its border to Belarus except for diplomats and EU citizens, while addressing potential NATO security consultations.
Lithuania has announced plans to shoot down balloons crossing its border from Belarus, as these incursions have disrupted air traffic. Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene framed the actions as 'hybrid attacks', pointing to Belarus for failing to curb the smuggling of contraband cigarettes through these balloons.
In a decisive move, Lithuania temporarily shut its border with Belarus, leaving only diplomatic and EU citizen travel unaffected. The possibility of invoking NATO article 4 for security consultations is on the table as the country considers further measures.
Belarus expressed discontent over Lithuania's unilateral border actions, as recent weeks have seen increased airspace tensions in Europe. Lithuania's Foreign Minister emphasized that such airspace violations are deliberate provocations, potentially testing NATO’s resilience.
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