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Lithuania will begin to shoot down aerial devices transporting illicit goods from Belarus, the country's leader announced.

The measure comes after balloons entering Lithuanian airspace necessitated airport closures on several occasions recently, affecting holiday travel, while authorities suspended cross-border movement during each incident.

Border checkpoints will now be closed indefinitely due to the ongoing aerial incidents.

According to official declarations, "authorities will not hesitate to employ maximum response protocols during unauthorized aerial intrusions."

Government Response

Announcing the actions at a press conference, Ruginiene said the army was taking "every required action" to shoot down balloons.

Regarding frontier restrictions, officials noted embassy personnel maintain access across the international border, and EU citizens and Lithuanians can enter from Belarus, however general movement continues suspended.

"Through these actions, we communicate to foreign authorities stating that asymmetric operations face opposition across our nation, employing comprehensive defensive actions to stop such attacks," she said.

There has been no immediate response from Minsk officials.

Diplomatic Measures

The Baltic nation intends to coordinate with partners regarding the aerial device concerns and may discuss activating the NATO consultation clause - a request for consultation by a Nato member country regarding security matters, specifically concerning defense matters - officials noted.

Travel Impacts

Lithuanian airports were closed three times during holiday periods from balloon incidents originating from neighboring territory, disrupting air transport and passenger movement, based on regional media reports.

During the current month, 25 balloons entered Lithuania from Belarus, causing dozens of flight disruptions impacting thousands, Lithuania's National Crisis Management Centre told the BBC.

These incidents continue previous patterns: through early October, 544 balloons were recorded entering Lithuania from Belarus this year, according to official statements, with nearly thousand incidents during previous year.

International Perspective

International air travel hubs - including in Copenhagen and Munich - have also been affected by air incursions, involving unmanned aerial vehicles, over past months.