EU summons Belarusian representative over 'hybrid attack' of balloon incursions on Lithuania's airspace

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described recent Belarusian incursions into Lithuanian airspace as a hybrid attack by the Lukashenko government on Monday, coinciding with the summoning of Belarus representative to Brussels.

The border situation with Belarus is deteriorating, with an increase in smuggling balloons entering Lithuanian airspace, von der Leyen said after speaking with Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausda.

Earlier, Vilnius Airport reported temporary airspace restrictions over the weekend caused by navigation signals typical of balloons moving toward Vilnius Airport. In recent months, European airports have faced repeated disruptions from drone sightings, with Vilnius Airport temporarily closing at least 10 times since early October, according to Reuters.

The airport lifted these restrictions on Monday, a statement confirmed. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kstutis Budrys said Belarus was deliberately targeting Vilnius Airport, causing multiple temporary restrictions just last week. Over one night alone, more than 7,400 passengers and 50 flights were affected, including 31 cancellations, 10 diversions, and nine delays.

Authorities reported in October that dozens of small hot-air balloons entered Lithuanian airspace, some carrying smuggled cigarettes, though their origin was unclear. Following repeated airspace violations, Lithuania closed its border with Belarus later that month. Belarus foreign ministry criticized the closure, claiming it violated citizens rights and freedom of movement.

On Monday, the EUs diplomatic service summoned the Belarusian Charg dAffaires to issue a formal diplomatic note regarding the hybrid actions emanating from Belarusian territory, stated Anitta Hipper, EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy. Hipper emphasized that Belarus actions represent a threat to the EU.

This hybrid attack by the Lukashenko regime is completely unacceptable, von der Leyen added, noting that further measures under the EU sanctions regime are being prepared.

European nations have increased vigilance after multiple incursions by drones and aircraft into NATO airspace. In September, around 20 Russian drones entered Poland from Ukraine, prompting NATO jets from several countries to intercept them. Russia denied any intentional breach. Later, NATO reported Russian jets over Estonia, which Moscow also denied. Romania condemned Moscow after a Russian drone allegedly crossed its airspace.

Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginien has stated that the countrys armed forces are ready to take all necessary measures to neutralize unauthorized balloons.

Analysis: Rising Hybrid Threats from Belarus

The recent incursions into Lithuanian airspace mark a significant escalation in hybrid tactics by Belarus. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the incidents as a "hybrid attack," highlighting the growing security risks along the EU's eastern borders. The repeated use of balloons and drones to disrupt air traffic indicates a deliberate strategy rather than isolated incidents.

Lithuanian authorities reported that over 7,400 passengers and 50 flights were affected during one night alone, emphasizing the tangible impact on civil aviation. Vilnius Airport has temporarily closed at least 10 times since October due to these disruptions, demonstrating the persistence and scale of the threat. These events follow broader regional concerns, including previous drone incursions into NATO airspace by Russian forces, which underscores the rising complexity of hybrid threats in Eastern Europe.

The EU has responded diplomatically by summoning Belarusian representatives and preparing additional sanctions, signaling a coordinated stance against these provocations. Lithuania has also strengthened its border and airspace monitoring, with its armed forces ready to neutralize unauthorized balloons. The combination of political, civil, and military measures reflects the EU’s broader effort to deter hybrid operations while maintaining air safety and border security.

In conclusion, Belarus’ actions represent a calculated challenge to EU norms and security. The situation demonstrates the need for ongoing vigilance, rapid response capabilities, and international coordination to prevent further disruptions and maintain stability along the EU’s eastern frontier.

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• Balloon incursions are ‘hybrid attack’ on Lithuania’s airspace, EU says as it summons Belarusian representative