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The Baltic nation plans to eliminate helium balloons carrying contraband tobacco across the border, its prime minister has warned.

This action responds after unauthorized aerial incursions forced Vilnius Airport to close on several occasions recently, with weekend disruptions, while authorities suspended Belarus border crossings temporarily each time.

International border access continues restricted due to the ongoing aerial incidents.

The government leader stated, "our nation stands prepared to implement even the most severe actions during unauthorized aerial intrusions."

Government Response

Outlining the strategy to media, Ruginiene said the army was taking "every required action" to eliminate aerial threats.

Regarding frontier restrictions, Ruginiene said diplomats will still be able to travel between the two countries, with special provisions for EU and Lithuanian nationals, however general movement continues suspended.

"Through these actions, we communicate to foreign authorities declaring that unconventional threats won't be accepted within our territory, and we'll implement maximum countermeasures to prevent similar incidents," she said.

There has been no immediate response from Minsk officials.

International Consultation

The Baltic nation intends to coordinate with partners about the security challenges presented with possible discussions about implementing the alliance's consultation mechanism - a request for consultation by a Nato member country on any issue of concern, especially related to its security - the Prime Minister concluded.

Airport Disruptions

Aviation hubs faced multiple shutdowns at the weekend due to weather balloons from Belarus, impacting over hundred flights and thousands of travelers, according to Baltic News Service.

Earlier this month, several unauthorized objects traversed the border, leading to 30 flight cancellations affecting 6,000 passengers, Lithuania's National Crisis Management Centre told the BBC.

The phenomenon is not new: through early October, hundreds of aerial devices documented crossing borders from neighboring territory during current year, an NCMC spokesman said, while 966 were recorded last year.

Regional Situation

International air travel hubs - covering northern and central European sites - experienced similar aerial disruptions, involving unmanned aerial vehicles, in recent weeks.