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Vilnius Airport Closes Amid Suspected Belarusian Balloon Threat

12/6/2025

Summary

Story summary

Vilnius airport in Lithuania closed on December 6 due to suspected balloons disrupting airspace, leaving thousands stranded.
The closures, more than ten since October, are attributed to cigarette smugglers and labeled a "hybrid attack" by Belarus.
Deputy Foreign Minister Taurimas Valys condemned the situation as a threat to national security.
Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene signaled possible border closures and relocating night flights to Kaunas, airspace violations linked to Russian actions.

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Story summary

Vilnius airport in Lithuania closed on December 6 due to suspected balloons disrupting airspace, leaving thousands stranded.
The closures, more than ten since October, are attributed to cigarette smugglers and labeled a "hybrid attack" by Belarus.
Deputy Foreign Minister Taurimas Valys condemned the situation as a threat to national security.
Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene signaled possible border closures and relocating night flights to Kaunas, airspace violations linked to Russian actions.