Lithuania Declares Emergency Over Border Balloon Incursions

Lithuania has declared a state of emergency along its border with Belarus. The government cited a public safety threat from a surge in smuggling attempts using large balloons. These balloons, launched from Belarus, often carry illegal goods like cigarettes. Lithuanian authorities say the incidents have increased sharply in recent weeks. The declaration grants border guards and police expanded powers. Officials can now more easily confiscate the balloons and detain individuals involved. In separate diplomatic developments, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with European allies in London on Tuesday. Ukraine plans to share a revised peace plan with the United States, aiming to end the war with Russia.