Lithuanian authorities are investigating a possible drone crash after an explosion was reported overnight in the Varėna district near the village of Lavysas.
According to the Lithuanian Armed Forces, preliminary information suggests that an unidentified object, possibly a drone, crossed into Lithuanian airspace overnight and crashed in the area.
Video footage obtained by LRT captures the sound of a flying object, though it is not visible in the night sky. Seconds later, an explosion is heard, followed by flames lighting up the horizon and burning debris falling to the ground.
The exact nature of the object remains unclear.
Based on surveillance camera data, the incident occurred at 03:04 Monday.
Authorities have activated plan “Skydas”, a standard emergency response protocol used in cases involving explosives or hazardous objects.
“We can confirm that debris is visible at the scene. Police and fire and rescue services are working there, and an Air Force helicopter is en route for observation,” the Armed Forces said in a statement.
Representatives of the Fire and Rescue Department said firefighters were dispatched after receiving information from police and helped secure the area.
The National Crisis Management Centre said it is aware of the situation and that emergency services and the military are assessing the incident.
According to LRT sources, police and fire officials were at the site Monday afternoon, while a military helicopter was seen circling overhead. A witness told LRT that debris believed to be from the object was visible on the ice of a nearby lake.
Authorities said more detailed information will be provided as the investigation continues.
PM calls emergency meeting
Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė said she is calling a meeting of the National Security Commission for Tuesday following the crash of a suspected cross-border drone in the Varėna district.
“In view of the situation, I am convening a meeting of the National Security Commission tomorrow at 10:00, where all circumstances related to this incident will be presented,” Ruginienė wrote in a Facebook post.
There is no threat to public safety, the prime minister added.
