Balloons from Belarus Disrupt Lithuania’s Airports Over Two Nights

Flights at Lithuania’s main airports faced significant disruptions over two consecutive nights due to suspected balloon sightings linked to cigarette smuggling operations from Belarus. This incident has raised concerns among authorities and prompted discussions about potential security measures.

Flight Disruptions and Cancellations

On the evening of October 21, 2023, Vilnius Airport suspended air traffic at 21:35, reopening the airspace at 03:30 the following morning. The suspension led to the cancellation of four flights and the diversion of seven others. The night before, a similar suspension affected both Vilnius and Kaunas airports, resulting in ten cancellations and four diverted flights.

This series of disruptions follows several incidents earlier in the week, where similar balloon sightings caused significant interruptions to air traffic and the closure of Lithuania’s two border crossings with Belarus—Medininkai and Šalčininkai—for several hours. These measures were taken as a precaution against the potential threat posed by the balloons.

Government Response and Security Measures

In light of these incidents, Lithuania’s Prime Minister, Inga Ruginienė, has indicated that the government is contemplating more stringent measures. During a press briefing, she mentioned that Lithuania might need to consider a longer-term closure of its border with Belarus. Additionally, the government is reviewing tougher penalties for those involved in smuggling activities.

On October 23, 2023, Ruginienė convened a meeting of Lithuania’s National Security Commission to discuss possible actions in response to the recurrent balloon incidents. The government has emphasized that any activities disrupting critical infrastructure, such as airports, will elicit a firm response. The head of Lithuania’s border guard, speaking to public broadcaster LRT, confirmed that since the first sightings of smuggling balloons in March 2023, they have only been used to transport illegal cigarettes.

As a member of both the European Union and NATO, Lithuania’s strategic position on the western alliance’s eastern flank, bordering both Russia and Belarus, adds complexity to the situation. The government is keen on safeguarding its national security and maintaining the integrity of its borders.

With ongoing tensions and the potential for increased security measures, the Lithuanian government is sending clear warnings to Belarus regarding activities that threaten public safety and national security. The recent disruptions highlight the need for vigilance and coordination between authorities to address smuggling and related incidents effectively.