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Lukashenko Threatens to Seize Up to 1,200 Lithuanian Trucks as Border Standoff Escalates

Lithuania cites balloon incursions that disrupted flights as the reason for a closure now stranding drivers in Belarus.

Overview

  • Belarus has refused a dedicated evacuation corridor for Lithuanian haulers, demanding a full border reopening instead.
  • Lithuania closed two crossings on Oct. 29 after repeated weather balloons from Belarus disrupted Vilnius airport operations and says the closures run at least through late November.
  • Alexander Lukashenko says the stranded trucks were moved to paid parking and warns seizures could proceed under Belarusian law if the border stays shut.
  • Lithuanian officials describe the balloon activity as a Russia-aligned hybrid tactic, with concerns reinforced by a surge in drone intrusions into NATO airspace since September.
  • Drivers report fatigue and fears of cargo spoilage as the standoff drags on without an agreed path for the vehicles to exit Belarus.