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Authorities have decided to intercept and destroy helium balloons carrying cigarettes from neighbouring Belarus, its prime minister has warned.

This decision follows after balloons entering Lithuanian airspace forced Vilnius Airport to close repeatedly in recent days, with weekend disruptions, accompanied by temporary closures of cross-border movement during each incident.

International border access continues restricted following repeated balloon incursions.

The government leader stated, "our nation stands prepared to implement even the most severe actions when our airspace is violated."

National Security Actions

Announcing the actions at a press conference, officials stated defense units were executing "every required action" to intercept unauthorized devices.

About the border closure, the Prime Minister confirmed diplomatic movement continues between the two countries, with special provisions for EU and Lithuanian nationals, but no other movement will be allowed.

"This represents our clear message to Belarus and saying that no hybrid attack will be tolerated within our territory, and we'll implement maximum countermeasures to stop such attacks," government officials declared.

Official communications saw no quick answer from Minsk officials.

Alliance Coordination

The Baltic nation intends to coordinate with partners over the threat posed from the balloons while potentially considering invocation of Nato's Article 4 - a request for consultation by a Nato member country regarding security matters, especially related to its security - the Prime Minister concluded.

Flight Cancellations

Lithuanian airports were closed three times over the weekend because of aerial devices originating from neighboring territory, disrupting air transport and passenger movement, according to Baltic News Service.

During the current month, multiple aerial devices crossed into Lithuanian airspace, causing dozens of flight disruptions impacting thousands, per national security agency reports.

This situation represents ongoing challenges: by autumn measurements, hundreds of aerial devices documented crossing borders across the frontier in recent months, per government spokesperson comments, compared to higher numbers in prior period.

European Context

International air travel hubs - covering northern and central European sites - have also been affected by air incursions, with unauthorized drone observations, in recent weeks.