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The Baltic nation plans to intercept and destroy aerial devices transporting contraband tobacco across the border, government officials confirmed.

This decision follows after unauthorized aerial incursions disrupted air traffic multiple times over the past week, with weekend disruptions, with the government also closing Belarus border crossings temporarily each time.

Border checkpoints will now be closed indefinitely in response to the helium weather balloons.

Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene said, "we are ready to take even the most severe actions against airspace violations."

National Security Actions

Detailing the measures during a briefing, Ruginiene said the army was taking "complete operational protocols" to intercept unauthorized devices.

Regarding frontier restrictions, the Prime Minister confirmed diplomatic movement continues between the two countries, and EU citizens and Lithuanians can enter from Belarus, however general movement continues suspended.

"In this way, we are sending a signal to foreign authorities and saying that no hybrid attack will be tolerated across our nation, employing comprehensive defensive actions to stop such attacks," the Prime Minister emphasized.

There has been no immediate response from the neighboring government.

International Consultation

Authorities will discuss with international allies about the security challenges presented with possible discussions about implementing the NATO consultation clause - a request for consultation by a Nato member country regarding security matters, specifically concerning defense matters - she added.

Travel Impacts

Lithuanian airports were closed three times at the weekend due to weather balloons originating from neighboring territory, affecting 112 flights and more than 16,500 passengers, according to Baltic News Service.

During the current month, 25 balloons entered Lithuania from Belarus, leading to 30 flight cancellations affecting 6,000 passengers, per national security agency reports.

The phenomenon is not new: through early October, numerous unauthorized objects tracked entering airspace from neighboring territory during current year, according to official statements, compared to higher numbers in prior period.

Regional Situation

Other European airports - such as Scandinavian and German locations - have also been affected by air incursions, with unauthorized drone observations, in recent weeks.