An unidentified unmanned aircraft violated Lithuania’s airspace on 28 July, likely originating from Belarusian territory, prompting a full-scale security response.

According to LRT, residents began reporting drone sightings to police early 28 July morning, with witnesses describing an aircraft flying at approximately 200 meters altitude near the capital Vilnius.

“In the morning, reports came from residents about an unmanned aircraft that most likely flew into Lithuania from Belarus,” said Darius Buta, representative of the National Crisis Center. “According to reports, the drone was seen at an altitude of about 200 meters, last time – near Vilnius.”

Lithuanian police activated all available forces and notified other security services following the reports. Authorities have urged citizens to report any new sightings while warning against approaching the aircraft if spotted on the ground.

Video footage circulating online suggests the aircraft may be a Russia “Geran” or “Gerbera” type drone, identifiable by its distinctive sound signature. Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė told LRT that officials are still working to determine the aircraft type.

“Given that Belarus is preparing for exercises, the probability of incidents, including unintentional ones, is increasing,” Šakalienė added.

This marks the second such violation in recent weeks. On 10 July, a Russian “Gerbera” drone entered Lithuanian territory via Belarus, prompting Lithuania to file a formal protest note with Belarusian authorities.

Poland deploys aircraft to patrol its airspace as Russia attacks Ukraine

Meanwhile, Poland scrambled aircraft to patrol its airspace overnight Sunday into Monday as Russia launched missile attacks against Ukraine.

According to the Polish Armed Forces Operational Command, both Polish and allied aircraft were deployed while ground-based air defense systems reached maximum readiness in areas close to Ukraine’s border.

“These actions are preventive in nature and are aimed at securing the airspace and protecting citizens, especially in areas adjacent to the threatened region,” the Operational Command wrote.

Recently, Ukraine, Poland, and Lithuania formed a new alliance within the Lublin Triangle to counter Russia’s manipulation of shared history. They established a Historians’ Forum aimed at preventing Moscow from exploiting historical events to sow discord among the countries amid the ongoing war with Russia.

The alliance also focuses on strengthening military and cultural ties and supporting Ukraine’s EU and NATO integration, with regular foreign minister meetings planned at least twice a year.