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Lithuania Declares Nationwide Emergency Over Belarus Balloon Smuggling Threat
Over 600 smuggling balloons have entered Lithuanian airspace this year causing airport closures and disrupting more than 350 flights, officials said.
- On Dec 9, Lithuania declared a state of emergency over smuggled balloons from Belarus, citing national security and dangers to human life, property and the environment.
- Interior Ministry data shows about 600 smuggling balloons and 200 drones entered Lithuania this year, with 315 unauthorized balloon incursions since June, peaking at 71 in October, many carrying contraband cigarettes.
- The government approved measures granting additional powers to troops during the emergency and will submit the proposal to Seimas under fast-track procedures; if approved, Lithuanian Armed Forces could use special equipment and detain suspects for three months.
- Airport disruptions have affected 47,000 passengers and disrupted more than 300 flights at Vilnius International Airport and Kaunas airport, while roughly 1,000 Lithuanian-registered trucks remain stranded with a 120 euros daily parking charge.
- Vilnius has taken the issue to Brussels, where Kaja Kallas condemned Belarus and Ursula von der Leyen called the incursions a 'hybrid attack' as Brussels prepares EU sanctions expansion.
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174 Articles
der Standard ATReposted by 
der Standard DE
der Standard DEDue to further incidents with smuggling balloons, the Baltic country has declared an emergency. Minsk rejects allegations
·Vienna, Austria
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kreiszeitung.deReposted by 
merkur.de
merkur.deThe government of Lithuania has declared that the balloons from Belarus were a "danger to human life", whereas Lukashenko's accusations are hailing.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources174
Leaning Left43Leaning Right18Center38Last UpdatedBias Distribution44% Left
Bias Distribution
- 44% of the sources lean Left
44% Left
L 44%
C 38%
R 18%
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