Kaunas: Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene stated on Friday that the country might indefinitely reclose its border with Belarus if security threats persist. This announcement was made at Kaunas Airport, where Ruginiene addressed reporters about the potential for reinstating border closures in response to ongoing security challenges.

According to Anadolu Agency, Ruginiene highlighted the ongoing issue of contraband-carrying balloons being launched from Belarus, describing it as Lithuania's "new reality." While the country has been closing its airports less frequently, Ruginiene emphasized Lithuania's broader strategy to tackle the smugglers responsible for these actions. She noted that simply closing the border would not suffice in halting the balloon launches, indicating that comprehensive measures are being implemented.

The Lithuanian government recently decided to reopen its border crossings with Belarus ahead of the initially planned date of November 30. The decision to close these borders was originally prompted by repeated incidents of helium balloons entering Lithuanian airspace from Belarus, which also led to the temporary shutdown of airports and border points.

Ruginiene also addressed Belarus' continued blockade, which prevents Lithuanian trucks from returning even after the reopening of border checkpoints. She characterized this situation as a 'hybrid attack,' asserting that the ongoing restrictions on Lithuanian trucks validate the government's stance and actions against potential threats.