The Lithuanian Armed Forces have reported that a Russian fighter jet and a refueling aircraft briefly entered Lithuanian airspace from the Russian enclave of Königsberg on the evening of the 23rd of October, writes Politico.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has condemned the violation of international law and Lithuania’s territorial sovereignty. Nausėda is currently in Brussels, and wrote on the X that the violation must be responded to.
The violation occurred at a time when European leaders are discussing ways to strengthen the bloc’s security in Brussels. Air defense is a priority for Lithuania, especially since airspace border violations have become increasingly frequent in recent months. Vilnius Airport has already suspended operations several times due to smuggled balloons flying in from Belarus.
Nausėda said that she cannot remain silent, and
the incident also clearly shows how important the issues currently being discussed in the European Council are.
“The decisions we intend to make are certainly aimed at strengthening Lithuania’s air defense,” the president added.
The planes entered Lithuanian airspace for about 700 meters and were there for about 18 seconds. The planes were most likely conducting aerial refueling exercises. In response to the violation, two Spanish Air Force fighter jets were scrambled, which then remained in the air to patrol the area.
Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė said in a post on Facebook that the situation was fully under control. The prime minister said that the incident once again proves that Russia is a terrorist state that does not respect international law and the security of its neighbors. She added that, together with its allies, Lithuania will protect every inch of its territory.
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