Balloons and Drones: Lithuania's Unusual Security Challenge

Lithuania has taken a big step to boost its security. The country declared a national emergency to deal with a strange problem. Balloons and drones from Belarus have been causing trouble. These aren't your average party balloons. They're being used to smuggle cigarettes and disrupt flights. Over 500 weather balloons and nearly 200 drones have been spotted since the start of the year. This has led to over 350 flights being delayed, diverted, or canceled. The Vilnius airport, Lithuania's capital, had to close for more than 60 hours. This has cost the country over 750, 000 euros in losses. Lithuania's Prime Minister, Inga Ruginiene, said they need to take strict measures. She assured that the heightened alert won't inconvenience residents. Instead, it will help military and civilian services respond faster to potential threats. This isn't just about balloons and drones. It's part of a bigger picture. NATO and the European Union are also dealing with drone incursions, cyberattacks, and political meddling. Russia and Belarus have been accused of directing these efforts. However, both countries have denied these allegations. This situation shows how modern conflicts can be complex. They don't always involve traditional warfare. Instead, they can include a mix of tactics designed to create chaos and anxiety. It's a reminder that security threats can come in many forms.