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The Baltic nation plans to shoot down aerial devices transporting cigarettes from neighbouring Belarus, its prime minister has warned.

This action responds after foreign objects crossing the border necessitated airport closures multiple times over the past week, with weekend disruptions, with the government also closing Belarus border crossings temporarily each time.

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

The government leader stated, "authorities will not hesitate to employ even the most severe actions during unauthorized aerial intrusions."

National Security Actions

Announcing the actions at a press conference, the Prime Minister confirmed military forces were implementing "every required action" to shoot down balloons.

Concerning border measures, Ruginiene said diplomats will still be able to travel for cross-border diplomatic missions, while European Union nationals and Lithuanian residents retain entry rights, but no other movement will be allowed.

"This represents our clear message to Belarus declaring that unconventional threats won't be accepted across our nation, employing comprehensive defensive actions to stop such attacks," government officials declared.

Authorities received no prompt reaction from the neighboring government.

Alliance Coordination

Authorities will discuss with international allies about the security challenges presented with possible discussions about implementing Nato's Article 4 - a request for consultation by a Nato member country on any issue of concern, particularly involving territorial protection - she added.

Airport Disruptions

Aviation hubs faced multiple shutdowns at the weekend due to weather balloons originating from neighboring territory, affecting 112 flights and more than 16,500 passengers, per transportation authority data.

During the current month, several unauthorized objects traversed the border, causing dozens of flight disruptions impacting thousands, according to emergency management officials.

This situation represents ongoing challenges: by autumn measurements, hundreds of aerial devices documented crossing borders from neighboring territory during current year, according to official statements, compared to higher numbers in prior period.

European Context

International air travel hubs - such as Scandinavian and German locations - have also been affected by air incursions, with unauthorized drone observations, during current period.