Lithuania warns of “elevated” threat as Italian jets down explosive drone from Belarus

Vilnius urges stronger NATO air defenses after the 15 September incursion, calling Italy’s rapid response proof of allied unity

The threat level on NATO’s eastern flank remains “elevated”, Lithuania’s ambassador to Italy, Dalia Kreiviene, tells Adnkronos, warning that the drone incursion on 15 September fits into a pattern of growing pressure on the Alliance. The drone — formally confirmed to have entered Lithuanian airspace from Belarus and armed with explosives — was intercepted and destroyed by Italian Eurofighter jets deployed under NATO’s air mission.

Kreiviene says Russia and Belarus continue to conduct hostile activities, including sabotage, diversionary operations, state‑sponsored terrorism and the weaponization of illegal migration.

“Russia is acting increasingly irresponsibly, escalating the situation. The probability of such actions and incidents is rising.”

Investigations into the drone’s origin and mission are ongoing.

Italy’s intervention seen as a clear sign of allied solidarity

The ambassador stresses that Italy’s role in the mission is crucial for Lithuania’s security. She thanked Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto for his recent visit and for Rome’s “constant attention and timely cooperation.”

She notes that, following decisions at NATO’s Ankara summit, the Baltic air‑policing mission has now become a full air‑defense mission.

“Italy’s presence — and that of other Allies — sends a strong signal of solidarity and significantly strengthens NATO’s deterrence against the Russian threat.”

The rapid interception on 15 September, she says, demonstrated the Alliance’s ability to act decisively: “It was a clear message: NATO remains vigilant, determined and ready to intervene.”

Vilnius calls for stronger NATO air defenses

Recent drone‑related alerts, including incidents near Vilnius airport, have intensified Lithuania’s push for reinforced NATO air‑surveillance and air‑defense capabilities.

“These incidents are Russia’s way of testing NATO. Escalatory tactics cannot become the new normal.”

Kreiviene argues that NATO’s air‑defense mission must have all necessary capabilities, calibrated to the current threat level and ready to neutralize emerging dangers. Lithuania itself is investing heavily in air defense, particularly against low‑altitude, low‑speed threats.

“All Allies must accelerate the modernization and development of their defense capabilities.”

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(Photo: © AndKronos)