Lithuania is escalating tensions, declaring a state of emergency over balloons carrying contraband cigarettes which, according to Vilnius, constitute a new form of "hybrid attack" from Belarus, resulting in repeated airport closures and the activation of even the army.
Vilnius airport closes
Vilnius airport has closed numerous times due to the balloons, which Lithuania accuses of being used by cigarette smugglers with the cover of the Belarusian authorities. Minsk denies all responsibility and counter-accuses Lithuania of dropping "extremist material" via drone, something Vilnius categorically denies.
Government requests army activation
Interior Minister Vladislav Kondratovic stated that the state of emergency is being declared not only due to the disruption of civil aviation but also for national security reasons. The government asked parliament to allow the army to operate alongside the police and border guards, but also independently, if needed.
Emergency powers for searches and arrests
According to Reuters, if parliament approves the request, the military forces will be able to restrict access to areas, stop and search vehicles, examine citizens' documents and personal belongings, and even arrest those who resist or are suspected of criminal activity. Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas clarified that the army will also have the right to use force. The measures will remain in effect until the government lifts them.
Support from the European Commission
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned on December 1 that the situation at the border is worsening and described the balloon violations as an "absolutely unacceptable hybrid attack" by Belarus. Lithuania had also imposed a state of emergency in 2021 on the border with Belarus, accusing Minsk of organizing the pushing of migrants into the EU. In 2022, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Vilnius declared a new state of emergency due to fears that it might become the next target.
www.bankingnews.gr
Σχόλια αναγνωστών