Lithuania declares emergency over smuggling balloons from Belarus

Lithuania announced a state of emergency on Tuesday after several weather balloons from Belarus entered its territory. Officials say these balloons are being used to smuggle illegal cigarettes, increasing tensions between the two countries. The government said the emergency was needed because the balloons pose a risk to public safety, though it did not say how long it will last. Since mid-October, Vilnius International Airport has faced repeated disruptions and temporary shutdowns because of these balloon incidents.Read more…