Vilnius is escalating efforts too safeguard its national security following repeated disruptions linked to activity originating in Belarus, including the novel use of balloons for smuggling [[2]]. Prime Minister ingrida Šimonytė announced a thorough review of defense strategies following a National Security Council meeting, as tensions remain high between the two nations. Lithuania is also preparing a legal challenge at the International Court of Justice regarding interference with civilian air traffic,a move signaling a firm response to escalating cross-border issues [[1]].
Lithuania is bolstering its national security preparedness amid ongoing tensions with neighboring Belarus, Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė announced following a National Security Council meeting. The move comes as Vilnius considers legal action over disruptions to civil aviation caused by Belarusian activity.
Šimonytė stated that the Ministry of National Defence, in coordination with the military, is developing a strategic plan to address emerging threats. “I will receive it within a week,” she said. “It must outline priorities, how the Ministry of National Defence envisions what needs to be done, and what steps need to be taken now, in preparation for responding to constantly evolving threats.”
Strengthening air defense is a key priority, according to the Prime Minister. “I have said many times that air defense is one of the most important priorities,” Šimonytė noted. “What we planned five years ago, or earlier, now needs to be revised, and we are doing that. This will be presented next week.”
The government is preparing to take its case regarding damage to civil aviation to the International Court of Justice. Šimonytė explained that the Ministries of Justice, Transport and Communications, and Foreign Affairs are collaborating to gather evidence and build a legal case.
“We have already taken initial steps, with the Ministry of Transport and Communications contacting the international civil aviation organization,” she said. “These efforts will be combined and data will be collected so that we can pursue a legal process.”
The move follows a surge in the use of smuggling balloons launched from Belarus in recent months, which have repeatedly disrupted operations at Lithuanian airports. In October, Lithuania temporarily closed its last two border crossings with Belarus – Medininkai and Šalčininkai – in response to the increased activity, a closure that lasted until the end of November.
While the border crossings were reopened earlier than planned due to an apparent improvement in the situation, smuggling balloons continue to enter Lithuanian airspace. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges Lithuania faces in securing its borders.
In retaliation for Lithuania’s border closure, Minsk prohibited trucks registered in Lithuania from traveling within Belarus. Belarusian authorities required stranded carriers to park their vehicles in designated areas and pay a fee. Despite the reopening of the border last week, Lithuanian trucks remain stuck in Belarus, prompting the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry to deliver a protest note to the Belarusian ambassador in Vilnius.
