Lithuania Closes Borders Over Balloon Smuggling Dispute with Belarus

In a decisive move, Lithuania has opted to keep its borders with Belarus closed for the majority of travelers until the end of November. This action responds to recent incidents where smugglers used balloons to transport contraband over the border, causing disruptions in Lithuanian airspace.

The Lithuanian government expressed that the measures might be extended further if hostile actions persist. Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene described the incidents as a form of hybrid attack, vowing to shoot down any such illegal incursions in the future.

The European Union has voiced its support for Lithuania, calling on Belarus to regulate its airspace against criminal activities. Meanwhile, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has condemned the border closure, labeling it an unfriendly policy that harms regional business.