As reported by Delfi
The Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginene explained why weather balloons carrying contraband that fly into the country from Belarus are not being shot down.
According to her, such a tactic is tied to complying with peacetime norms and avoiding excessive risk to the population.
Explanation Regarding Peacetime Actions and Possible Countermeasures
“In wartime we are ready to shoot down any objects entering our airspace; all structures are prepared for this. But we live in peacetime, so we must analyze and seek another exit that will have fewer consequences”
However, authorities note that they are currently considering other, less radical ways to counter dangerous reconnaissance signals.
“We are discussing the possibility of forcibly landing weather balloons using kinetic measures, but this would have numerous consequences if a weather balloon were to fall onto residential areas from a great height”
The government also plans to involve companies that work with innovative technologies to find safe solutions and reduce the impact on the airspace.
Because of the weather balloons, flights in Vilnius have again been temporarily suspended and restrictions on certain flights have been imposed, underscoring the need for swift and prudent actions.
The government continues to monitor the situation and works on solutions that will not threaten public safety but will help stabilize the situation and minimize the impact on civilians.
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