Lithuania has declared an emergency situation in response to security risks posed by balloons originating from Belarus. The Lithuanian government closed two border checkpoints for three weeks, leading to a standoff with Belarus, which then barred Lithuanian trucks from its roads. Lithuanian authorities have linked the balloons to aviation security concerns, with Vilnius airport closed for over 60 hours since October and more than 1,000 passengers affected by flight disruptions. Officials have intercepted several smuggling balloons carrying thousands of packets of cigarettes, while Belarusian leader Lukashenko denies any wrongdoing and questions Lithuania's motives. The situation has heightened tensions between the two countries, with ongoing disruptions to travel and trade.