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Lithuania Closes Border with Belarus Amid Smuggling Threats

10/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Inga Ruginiene, Prime Minister of Lithuania, announced plans to close Lithuania's border crossings with Belarus indefinitely after disruptions at Vilnius Airport tied to balloon sightings used for cigarette smuggling.
The National Security Commission met after air traffic was suspended for three consecutive evenings.
Border crossings at Medininkai and Šalcininkai were temporarily closed, with a 24-hour closure implemented.
A draft decision for indefinite closure is prepared, exempting diplomats and EU citizens.

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Story summary

Inga Ruginiene, Prime Minister of Lithuania, announced plans to close Lithuania's border crossings with Belarus indefinitely after disruptions at Vilnius Airport tied to balloon sightings used for cigarette smuggling.
The National Security Commission met after air traffic was suspended for three consecutive evenings.
Border crossings at Medininkai and Šalcininkai were temporarily closed, with a 24-hour closure implemented.
A draft decision for indefinite closure is prepared, exempting diplomats and EU citizens.