Lithuania's capital, Vilnius, experienced a significant disruption due to a drone incursion, leading Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas to declare that the Baltic states must prepare for more such incidents. The alert, which occurred on Wednesday morning, required citizens to seek shelter as officials investigated the drone's origin, suspected to be linked to Russian GPS jamming of Ukrainian drones. Kaunas stated, "This is the new reality of what the Baltic states face," emphasizing the high likelihood of similar scenarios in the future. NATO's air police mission was activated, with Portuguese fighter jets intercepting the drone. The incident marked the first major alert in a European Union and NATO capital since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Kaunas acknowledged the need to enhance airspace defense, stating that Lithuania is investing significantly in new radar systems. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen assured that the EU would respond to these incursions with unity and strength, reinforcing the notion that the security of the Baltic states is integral to European security.