Фото: правительство Литвы
Lithuania’s government has declared a nationwide state of emergency due to the crisis caused by cigarette-smuggling weather balloons launched from Belarus and violating Lithuanian airspace. The balloons have repeatedly disrupted operations at Vilnius Airport.
Minister of the Interior Vladislav Kondratovič has been appointed head of state operations under the emergency regime.
“Due to the ongoing threat to national security interests, as well as the danger to life, health, property and/or the environment posed by balloon-borne contraband launched from Belarusian territory toward Lithuania, the government has today introduced a state of emergency across the entire country,” the Lithuanian government said.
Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė stated: “In combating Belarus’s hybrid attack, we must take the strictest measures and protect the areas most affected. All relevant institutions are joining forces to prevent the threat posed by these contraband balloons. The public will not experience any inconvenience due to the state of emergency.”
The emergency regime will enable tighter coordination among security agencies and allow broader involvement of military personnel, who may operate alongside Interior Ministry services or independently.
The measure applies nationwide, as wind direction and strength can carry the balloons far into Lithuanian territory.