NATO fighter jets shot down a drone that entered Lithuanian airspace from Belarus overnight on September 15, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda reported.
He added that NATO readiness is vital for regional security amid intensifying Russian aggression against Ukraine, emphasizing that Lithuania and its allies will continue to defend the country's airspace.
The Lithuanian military warned the public of a potential aerial threat shortly before the incident, sending emergency alerts to residents.
NATO fighter jets scrambled to intercept the unidentified drone, forcing officials to temporarily restrict operations and airspace at Vilnius Airport.
Officials have not yet specified the type of drone that was shot down, and there are no reports of casualties or damage.
The incident marks the first time NATO fighter jets have shot down a drone in Lithuanian airspace.