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Meteorological devices containing numerous packages of cigarettes have caused flight disruptions in Lithuania, as the country's main airport was compelled to shut down for hours when multiple of them entered the airspace of Lithuania.

Air Travel Interruptions

The temporary shutdown led to thirty canceled flights affecting thousands of passengers, with airport representatives alerting that delays might continue throughout Monday.

National Security Measures

Authorities reported that twenty-five weather balloons were spotted infiltrating Lithuania from the border with Belarus, with two balloons ending up directly over the aviation facility.

Up to 14 of the weather balloons launched over the weekend passed through the metropolitan zone, which is home to Lithuania's main urban center and close to the Belarusian boundary.

Illegal Goods Seizure

No fewer than 11 balloons carrying 18,000 packs of contraband smoking materials have since been recovered, though additional discoveries are expected, according to customs agents.

Regional Smuggling Pattern

Despite the disruption, officials emphasized that "Weather devices carrying illegal goods - cigarettes from Belarus - are nothing new in neighboring countries."

So far this year, 544 balloons have been observed infiltrating Lithuania from Belarus, while approximately 966 had been documented the previous year.

Cross-Border Effects

Simultaneously, the north-eastern Polish territory, which likewise adjoins Belarus, has recorded more than 100 cases in which smuggled items were delivered from its neighbor using the weather devices.

Smuggling Techniques

Regarding inquiries concerning why smugglers utilize a method that is highly susceptible to weather factors rather than easier to manage drones, authorities explained that "Atmospheric equipment are rudimentary tools used by illegal traders - they are cheaper than drones for transporting cigarettes from Belarus."

Border Protection Aims

Representatives further stated that "Our services' aim is to capture the greatest possible quantities of contraband and to apprehend coordinators and perpetrators so that these practices become unprofitable and do not pose risk to passenger aircraft."

European Tensions

The recent incidents occur during an era marked by growing anxiety in Europe following numerous drone incursions that have created aviation problems across the continent.

Parallel situations in adjacent nations have led European authorities to accelerate discussions about enhancing aerial security throughout European airspace.