Lithuania has intensified its warnings over alleged “airspace violations” after Vice Minister of National Defence Karolis Aleksa reaffirmed claims that balloons launched from Belarus have repeatedly entered Lithuanian territory. Speaking ahead of the EU defence ministers’ meeting in Brussels, Aleksa said the government is treating the incidents as a serious aviation safety threat, but acknowledged that intercepting the balloons is technically challenging due to their altitude and current weather conditions. The latest balloon sightings forced Lithuania to temporarily close its main airport on Sunday, adding to rising tensions with Belarus. Lithuanian authorities say they have intercepted “dozens” of balloons in recent weeks, many reportedly carrying smuggled cigarettes. Last month, the country also shut several border checkpoints with Belarus over security concerns.
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