Lithuania Responds to Russian Airspace Violations Amid Heightened Tensions

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda announced a serious breach of national sovereignty on Thursday evening, as two Russian military aircraft violated Lithuanian airspace, marking a significant incident within NATO's operational perimeter. The incursion involved a fighter jet and a refueling aircraft, which traveled 700 meters into Lithuania for approximately 18 seconds, reportedly during a military exercise originating from the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. In response to this alarming situation, NATO's Baltic command swiftly dispatched Spanish fighter jets to patrol the area, underscoring the alliance's commitment to collective defense. This latest airspace violation comes on the heels of a series of incursions that have heightened tensions in the region, prompting NATO to initiate a new mission aimed at reinforcing air defenses. Notably, September witnessed major violations when around twenty Russian military drones infiltrated Polish airspace, some of which were subsequently intercepted and shot down. Additionally, three Russian fighter jets were reported to have invaded Estonian airspace, signaling a pattern of aggressive military maneuvers by Russia in its neighboring regions. President Nausėda emphasized the need for a firm reaction to these provocations, stating that he would summon representatives from the Russian embassy in Lithuania to formally protest the airspace violation. Through a post on social media platform X, Nausėda conveyed, "We must react," indicating a commitment to ensuring national security and upholding territorial integrity. This incident illustrates Russia's ongoing efforts to intimidate European nations, creating an atmosphere of instability and uncertainty in Eastern Europe. As NATO continues to navigate these security challenges, solidarity among member states will be crucial in responding to and deterring further aggression. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3