Diplomatic tension between Moscow and Vilnius is intensifying after the violation of its airspace by Russian aircraft.

In his message to X, the Lithuanian president Gitanas Nauseda spoke of flagrant violation of international law and territorial integrity of Lithuania and announced that the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry would summon representatives of the Russian embassy to protest.

“Tonight, Russian military aircraft violated Lithuanian airspace. This is a flagrant violation of international law and the territorial integrity of Lithuania. Once again, it confirms the importance of strengthening European air defense preparedness.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania will summon representatives of the Russian embassy to protest against reckless and dangerous behavior”

Lithuania summoned the Russian ambassador, and issued a strong protest, while informing its NATO allies and the European Union, as well as the North Atlantic Council, of the incident, the Foreign Ministry said.

“This incident shows once again that Russia is behaving like a terrorist state, ignoring international law and the security of neighboring countries.”Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginje said on Facebook.

“Lithuania is safe. Together with our allies, we take care and will defend every centimeter of our country”he added.

The two aircraft, an Su-30 fighter and an Il-78 refueling aircraft, were likely conducting a refueling exercise when they violated the airspace at around 18.00 (Greece time), entering from the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad.

Spanish NATO Baltic Air Police Eurofighter Typhoon jets have taken off in response and are patrolling the area.