Relations between Lithuania and Belarus remain highly strained, with the airspace becoming the primary arena of conflict. The situation is exacerbated by mutual accusations of border violations and, crucially, mass smuggling attempts using Contraband Balloons launched from Belarus.
Aviation Chaos Due to Contraband
The primary factor fueling the escalation has been the numerous incursions by contraband-carrying balloons launched from Belarus. These objects pose a serious threat to civil aviation, exemplified by the scale of the problem: on the night of December 1 alone, Lithuania recorded about 80 balloons.
Lithuanian Airports (LTOU) reported that due to the danger posed by the balloons, Vilnius and Kaunas airports have been repeatedly forced to suspend operations. Between October and November, Vilnius airspace was closed 13 times, and Kaunas once. These incidents affected approximately 45,000 passengers and 320 flights.
LTOU Seeks Compensation Over Contraband Balloons Damage
LTOU is preparing a lawsuit seeking compensation for damages, which preliminary estimates suggest exceed 750,000 euros.