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Lithuania will begin to intercept and destroy aerial devices transporting cigarettes from neighbouring Belarus, its prime minister has warned.

The measure comes after unauthorized aerial incursions necessitated airport closures multiple times over the past week, with weekend disruptions, accompanied by temporary closures of cross-border movement during each incident.

International border access continues restricted due to the ongoing aerial incidents.

The government leader stated, "authorities will not hesitate to employ the strictest possible measures during unauthorized aerial intrusions."

Government Response

Announcing the actions at a press conference, the Prime Minister confirmed military forces were implementing "all necessary measures" to shoot down balloons.

About the border closure, Ruginiene said diplomats will still be able to travel between the two countries, and EU citizens and Lithuanians can enter from Belarus, but no other movement will be allowed.

"In this way, we are sending a signal to Belarus stating that asymmetric operations face opposition within our territory, and we'll implement maximum countermeasures to prevent similar incidents," government officials declared.

There has been no immediate response from Belarus.

International Consultation

Lithuania plans to consult its allies regarding the aerial device concerns and may discuss activating the NATO consultation clause - a request for consultation by a Nato member country on any issue of concern, particularly involving territorial protection - officials noted.

Airport Disruptions

Aviation hubs faced multiple shutdowns over the weekend because of aerial devices originating from neighboring territory, impacting over hundred flights and thousands of travelers, per transportation authority data.

Earlier this month, 25 balloons entered Lithuania from Belarus, leading to 30 flight cancellations affecting 6,000 passengers, Lithuania's National Crisis Management Centre told the BBC.

These incidents continue previous patterns: through early October, 544 balloons were recorded entering Lithuania from neighboring territory during current year, according to official statements, compared to higher numbers in prior period.

International Perspective

Other European airports - covering northern and central European sites - faced comparable aviation security challenges, involving unmanned aerial vehicles, during current period.