Lithuania to Close Belarus Border, Shoot Smuggler Balloons

Lithuania moved to close its border with Belarus indefinitely and authorized the military to shoot down smuggler balloons after repeated airspace violations shut Vilnius airport four times last week. Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė said no “hybrid attack” would be tolerated and that the military could take “all measures,” including shooting down the balloons. Nearly 100 flights and about 14,000 passengers were affected. Exceptions will apply for diplomats and EU citizens leaving Belarus, as Vilnius coordinates tougher steps with Latvia and Poland and plans harsher penalties for smugglers.

Reviewed by JQJO team

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