Belarus Agrees to Halt Weather Balloons Amidst Diplomatic Tensions

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has promised to halt the flight of weather balloons into Lithuania. These balloons, allegedly used by cigarette smugglers, have disrupted operations at Vilnius airport. Lithuania sees this as a 'hybrid attack.' U.S. envoy John Coale disclosed Lukashenko's commitment following diplomatic talks.

In a recent diplomatic development, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has agreed to stop the movement of weather balloons from his country into Lithuania. The announcement was made by U.S. President Donald Trump's envoy, John Coale, after two days of intense negotiations with the Belarusian leader.

The weather balloons, reportedly used by cigarette smugglers, have been blamed for over a dozen airport closures in Vilnius, causing significant operational disruptions. Lithuanian authorities have accused Belarus of facilitating a 'hybrid attack,' using these balloons for illicit purposes.

Coale's disclosure of Lukashenko's commitment signifies a potential de-escalation in tensions between the neighboring countries. However, the effectiveness of this promise remains to be seen, as both nations navigate this complex cross-border issue.

(With inputs from agencies.)