Baltic Security: Lithuania is preparing to remove a Cold War-era constitutional ban on hosting weapons of mass destruction, a move that has drawn a sharp Kremlin warning that any Russian nuclear deployments would be aimed at Lithuania. NATO in the Skies: NATO fighter jets shot down a drone after it entered Lithuanian airspace, with Vilnius citing Belarus as the likely origin and using the incident to underline “allied unity” amid Russia’s pressure. EU Foreign Policy Power Struggle: Brussels is still wrestling over who speaks for Europe, with Kaja Kallas’ foreign-policy role colliding with the Commission and member states, leaving the EU sidelined in key negotiations. Ukraine Energy Ceasefire Talks: Zelenskyy says Ukraine could pause strikes on Russia’s critical infrastructure if Washington can secure a genuine commitment from Moscow not to target Ukraine’s energy sites. Defense Industry Localization: Korean firms are deepening local production and partnerships in Poland as Europe pushes for homegrown weapons and maintenance. Hybrid Threat Response: Bulgaria backs Italy’s push for a European centre to counter hybrid attacks, including cyber and drone threats. Money on the Sidelines: A new Revolut study puts a price on idle savings, showing deposit rates lag inflation across much of Europe. EU Enlargement Friction: Croatia is squeezing Montenegro’s EU bid by blocking a key transport chapter over unresolved disputes from the 1990s. Democracy Watch: A new report finds more democratic setbacks than gains across Europe from 2020 to 2025, with civil liberties and electoral integrity among the hardest hit. Public Health: Greece’s West Nile outbreak may be only the visible part of a much larger spread, with experts urging earlier, sustained mosquito monitoring. Arctic Strategy: EU leaders are shifting the Arctic strategy toward security as Russia’s activity and China’s interest reshape the region’s priorities.