NATO Jets Scrambled After a Russian Drone Sneaks Into Lithuanian Sky
Waking Up to a Foamy Surprise
On Monday morning, before the sun had even warmed the city of Vilnius, something a bit of a show‑stopper happened: an U.S.‑backed NATO jet squadron was ordered into action because Vladimir Putin was launching what the news called an “enormous attack on Ukraine.”
Simultaneously, a Russian drone—the infamous “Gerbera” model, known for tricking air‑defense systems like a clever magician—flew “into Lithuanian territory.” It had a route that seemed straight out of a spy thriller: it waddled from Belarus, dove near Vilnius at roughly 200 metres (656 ft) altitude, and disappeared around 5 a.m. on Monday.
Why This Is a High‑Stakes Event
- It’s the second time this month that a drone has illegally crossed into Lithuania.
- Policymakers are on high alert and have urged residents to stay away from any drone that might crash.
- Emergency operators at 112 are on standby for any reports.
What the Police and Military are Saying
According to the police statement: “The police report a sighting of an unidentified type of unmanned aerial vehicle that flew into Lithuanian territory from Belarus on the morning of July 28.” They added a friendly yet firm plea: “Residents who notice a fallen drone are strongly advised not to approach it and to immediately report it by calling 112.”
Darius Buta from Lithuania’s National Crisis Management Centre added, “The police have mobilized all forces and all services have been informed. Residents who have spotted the drone are urged to immediately call 112 and under no circumstances approach the device.”
Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovilė Šakalienė said: “Given the active actions of the Ukrainian defence to disorient Russian drones, the probability of lost drones remains increased.”
Head of the parliamentary Committee on National Security and Defence, Giedrimys Jeglinskas, commented on LRT Radio: “As far as I understand, an unmanned aircraft was spotted invading Lithuania from Belarus.”
How You Can Help (and Stay Safe)
- Don’t swoop in like a curious pigeon! If you see a downed drone, keep your distance.
- Fire up that phone and call 112—that’s the emergency number you need to dial.
- Let the police and the military handle the high‑tech drama; they’ve got it under control.
- Keep an eye on local news – you’ll get whatever updates the government releases.
In short, it’s a reminder that stealthy drones might still be hanging around when you least expect it. Stay calm, stay safe, and let the experts do the heavy lifting.
