Lithuania has shut down a stretch of its border airspace after Russian‑Belarusian drills, citing concerns over unmanned aircraft and the safety of civil aviation.
Lithuania Blocks Airspace Along Belarus Border
The Ministry of Transport and Communications announced a ban on flights in the border zone at the request of the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. The move follows upcoming Russian‑Belarusian Western Drills. Authorities stressed the protection of society and noted the risk to civil aviation from possible incursions by UAVs. Conditions for response actions were established, and the ban will remain in force until October 1, with the possibility of extension.
Russian Drones Over Lithuania
According to LTR, two incidents involving Russian drones were reported in July, one carrying two kilograms of explosives. This heightened concerns among Lithuanian officials about air defence capabilities and prompted a request for additional counter‑drone measures from NATO. Experts from the alliance were dispatched to assess the situation, and the defence minister, Dovile Sakalienė, said that solutions to allow for target engagement are being finalized.
Western Drills 2025
From September 12 to 16, the Western 2025 exercises will take place. Mr. BBC stressed that the previous 2021 drills culminated in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Exercises occur biennially, but the 2023 edition was cancelled due to personnel and equipment shortages. The Lithuanian defence ministry will limit this year’s participation to 30,000 troops, down from roughly 200,000 in 2021.
Source: Gazeta,
