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

The measure comes after foreign objects crossing the border necessitated airport closures repeatedly in recent days, including at the weekend, with the government also closing frontier checkpoints during these events.

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

According to official declarations, "our nation stands prepared to implement the strictest possible measures against airspace violations."

Government Response

Announcing the actions at a press conference, officials stated defense units were executing "complete operational protocols" to intercept unauthorized devices.

Concerning border measures, officials noted embassy personnel maintain access for cross-border diplomatic missions, with special provisions for EU and Lithuanian nationals, however general movement continues suspended.

"In this way, we are sending a signal to Belarus declaring that unconventional threats won't be accepted here, and we will take all the strictest measures to prevent similar incidents," government officials declared.

There has been no immediate response from Belarus.

Diplomatic Measures

Lithuania plans to consult its allies about the security challenges presented with possible discussions about implementing the NATO consultation clause - a protocol allowing member state consultation about national security issues, particularly involving territorial protection - officials noted.

Travel Impacts

Lithuanian airports were closed three times during holiday periods from balloon incidents originating from neighboring territory, affecting 112 flights and more than 16,500 passengers, according to Baltic News Service.

During the current month, multiple aerial devices crossed into Lithuanian airspace, causing dozens of flight disruptions impacting thousands, according to emergency management officials.

These incidents continue previous patterns: through early October, 544 balloons were recorded entering Lithuania from Belarus this year, an NCMC spokesman said, with nearly thousand incidents during previous year.

Regional Situation

International air travel hubs - covering northern and central European sites - faced comparable aviation security challenges, including drone sightings, in recent weeks.