NATO intercepts suspected Russian explosive drone over Lithuania coming from Belarus

An Italian fighter jet operating for NATO has shot down a suspected Russian drone after it entered Lithuanian airspace from Belarus, officials said.

Lithuania’s national crisis management centre said the drone crossed into the country on Tuesday and was intercepted near Pratkunai, north of Kaunas.

Lithuanian Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas said the drone was carrying an explosive and officials were examining the debris to determine its origin.

Kaunas said the interception demonstrated “the value of the Atlantic alliance” and “what it means to be an ally” after meeting crews at the scene.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the incident as part of a pattern of “aggression and provocation” against Europe.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul blamed Russia and said NATO members would not be intimidated.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the Baltic region. Poland’s Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz said “recent days show that Russia’s actions threaten the security of the entire Europe”.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte had also pledged increased support for Ukraine following Russian drone strikes on Sunday.

Kaunas warned that the Russia-Ukraine war had spread and said similar incidents could continue without a negotiated settlement, while maintaining that “Putin does not want” a peaceful settlement.