On October 23, Russian fighter and tanker aircraft briefly crossed into Lithuanian airspace for about 18 seconds, prompting a swift military response and a rebuke from President Gitanas Nauseda.
Russian Aircraft Enter Lithuanian Airspace
On the evening of October 23, a Russian Su‑30 fighter and an Il‑78 tanker briefly crossed into Lithuanian airspace near the border town of Kibarta, traveling roughly 700 metres inside the country for approximately 18 seconds.
Aircraft Part of Aerial Refueling Exercise
The Su‑30 was believed to be conducting an aerial refueling exercise, while the Il‑78 performed tanker operations. The planes were intercepted by two Spanish Eurofighter Typhoon fighters dispatched to the Baltic region.
Lithuanian Military Response
Two Eurofighter Typhoon fighters from the Spanish Air Force, currently on a Baltic Air Policing mission, were sent to the area to confront the incursion.
President Nauseda Calls Incident a “Shocking Violation”
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda described the breach as a “shocking violation of international law” and stressed the need to strengthen the country’s air defence. He highlighted the incident’s implication for national security.
Prime Minister Ruginiene Criticises Russian Conduct
Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene posted that Russia behaves like a “state terrorist” that disregards international law and the safety of neighbouring nations.
UK Navy Seizes Russian Warship Near Britain
On the same day, the Royal Navy reported that a British destroyer seized a Russian warship in the territorial waters of the United Kingdom, following a NATO directive.
