**Unidentified Drone Enters Lithuanian Airspace, Raising Concerns**
In a worrying incident, an unidentified drone entered Lithuanian airspace on July 28, sparking concerns about the country’s security. According to reports, the drone was spotted at an altitude of around 200 meters and was last seen near Vilnius.
**Drone Origin Uncertain**
While it is unclear where exactly the drone came from, authorities believe it may have originated from Belarus, a key ally to Russia in its full-scale war against Ukraine. This raises concerns about the potential for more incidents like this in the future, especially with the upcoming Zapad-2025 military drills scheduled to take place in mid-September.
**Increased Tensions**
The incident follows a series of events where Russian drones or missiles have strayed into NATO territory during aerial attacks on Ukraine. In July, a drone flew from Belarus into Lithuanian airspace, although it was later determined to be a homemade plywood drone that posed no danger. Last September, a Russian drone with an armed warhead crashed in neighboring Latvia.
** Authorities Respond**
Lithuanian authorities are working to locate the possible crash site of the unidentified drone and have warned residents not to approach the unmanned aircraft under any circumstances. Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene emphasized that all relevant services are on high alert, ready to respond to any situation.
**Commentary**
This incident highlights the increasing tensions between Russia and NATO countries in the region. The upcoming Zapad-2025 drills, which will involve around 13,000 troops, only add to these concerns. Belarus’s role as a key ally to Russia in its war against Ukraine further complicates the situation. As tensions continue to rise, it is essential for all parties involved to take steps towards de-escalation and increased transparency.
**Analysis**
The incident raises questions about the potential for more drones or other types of unmanned aircraft to enter Lithuanian airspace. The country’s proximity to Belarus and Russia makes it a prime target for such incidents. As NATO continues to strengthen its military presence in the region, it is crucial that all member countries remain vigilant and take steps to protect their airspaces.
**Read More**
For more information on this incident and the surrounding tensions, visit [kyivindependent.com](http://kyivindependent.com).
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