Lithuania Declares Emergency Over Belarusian Balloons Disrupting Airspace
Lithuania has declared a national emergency due to security risks posed by meteorological balloons originating from Belarus. These balloons have repeatedly violated Lithuanian airspace, leading to the closure of Vilnius International Airport for over 60 hours since October, affecting more than 350 flights and approximately 51,000 passengers. The Lithuanian government views these actions as deliberate disruptions orchestrated by Belarus, which is allied with Russia. The balloons are reportedly used to smuggle cigarettes into Lithuania, but their increased numbers and trajectories are seen as part of a hybrid attack. In response, Lithuania has closed two border crossings and initiated an investigation into the matter. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has denied any hybrid attacks, accusing Lithuania of politicizing the issue and calling for negotiations. 
