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The Baltic nation plans to shoot down aerial devices transporting cigarettes from neighbouring Belarus, the country's leader announced.

This decision follows after unauthorized aerial incursions forced Vilnius Airport to close on several occasions recently, affecting holiday travel, while authorities suspended Belarus border crossings temporarily each time.

International border access continues restricted in response to the helium weather balloons.

The government leader stated, "our nation stands prepared to implement maximum response protocols against airspace violations."

National Security Actions

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, the Prime Minister confirmed diplomatic movement continues for cross-border diplomatic missions, with special provisions for EU and Lithuanian nationals, 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 halt these operations," government officials declared.

Official communications saw no quick answer from the neighboring government.

Alliance Coordination

The Baltic nation intends to coordinate with partners regarding the aerial device concerns with possible discussions about implementing the NATO consultation clause - a request for consultation by a Nato member country about national security issues, specifically concerning defense matters - she added.

Flight Cancellations

Aviation hubs faced multiple shutdowns over the weekend because of aerial devices from Belarus, impacting over hundred flights and thousands of travelers, based on regional media reports.

Earlier this month, several unauthorized objects traversed the border, leading to 30 flight cancellations affecting 6,000 passengers, per national security agency reports.

This situation represents ongoing challenges: as of 6 October, hundreds of aerial devices documented crossing borders from neighboring territory during current year, according to official statements, while 966 were recorded last year.

Regional Situation

Additional aviation facilities - such as Scandinavian and German locations - have also been affected by air incursions, with unauthorized drone observations, over past months.