Statement from Lithuania’s Foreign Minister
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys has accused Russia of intentionally redirecting Ukrainian drones into Baltic airspace while simultaneously waging a smear campaign against Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. The remarks were posted on the social media platform X. In a recent incident, Estonia shot down a drone of Ukrainian origin that had entered its airspace. According to preliminary findings from Estonian authorities, the drone was heading toward military targets inside Russia but had its trajectory altered.
Estonia’s Air Force and Security Police are currently investigating the details of the incident. Meanwhile, Latvia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Russia’s chargé d’affaires and issued a formal protest note after several drones were found to have crossed into Latvian airspace from Russia. These drones were detected in the municipalities of Rēzekne, Balvi, and Ludza.
Latvia’s Response and Reaction to Disinformation Campaigns
Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže dismissed as an outright lie a claim by Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service that Ukraine was preparing to launch strikes from Latvian territory. In his statement, Kęstutis Budrys emphasized that
“Russia is deliberately redirecting Ukrainian drones into Baltic airspace while conducting slander campaigns against Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia.”
He added:
“My message to the Kremlin: nice try. Failed again. NATO remains united. We are ready to defend every inch of allied territory—in the air, on land, and at sea.”
These developments highlight rising tensions between Russia and the Baltic states, driven not only by drone incursions but also by information campaigns that, according to the Lithuanian minister, aim to destabilize the region. The situation remains under close observation, and the Baltic nations continue to take steps to bolster their security.
The escalating tensions in the Baltic region have prompted Kyiv to dispatch drone defense specialists to support its neighboring countries. This move underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures as incidents involving unauthorized drone incursions continue to rise, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.