Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania: three NATO and EU members on Europe’s eastern edge
CIA Director John Ratcliffe has flown to Moscow for undisclosed talks with Russian intelligence officials. The Kremlin has said President Vladimir Putin was briefed but did not meet Ratcliffe. U.S. officials and the CIA have declined to comment. Washington told Kyiv in advance and asked Ukraine to pause strikes on parts of Russia while the delegation was in the capital.
NATO fighter jets have shot down a jet-powered drone that entered Lithuanian airspace from Belarus and fell near Pratkunai, central Lithuania. Authorities have said the device likely carried explosives; Lithuania has begun analysing the wreckage. Allied officials are saying the incident fits a pattern of cross-border drone activity tied to RussiaUkraine fighting, and diplomatic rebuttals are continuing.
EU countries reach a compromise to extend sanctions on nearly 3,000 individuals and entities for three years while delisting Russian-Uzbek tycoon Alisher Usmanov and Russian-Israeli Mikhail Fridman from the bloc’s sanctions list. Latvia abstains, prompting tensions with Kyiv; France and Luxembourg argued for delisting on national-security grounds linked to a prisoner-release context.
Estonia has attributed an August arson at Milrem Robotics to Russian special services, saying it will bolster Ukraine support. European leaders condemn the attack as unacceptable and pledge unity against Russia’s hybrid campaigns; Moscow denies involvement. Latvia, Lithuania, and EU allies express solidarity and vow continued backing for Kyiv.
Ukraine’s intelligence has obtained documents showing Putin has issued a new doctrine to attack a broader range of civilian targets ahead of winter. Zelenskyy says the documents allow strikes on infrastructure, roads, schools and hospitals to pressure populations. Ukraine reports ongoing counteroffensive gains and signals a tougher response to Russia’s tactics.
Germany has arrested Vadym Y. on suspicion of spying for Russia, gathering military intelligence including armoured vehicles, ammunition and explosives. Authorities say he acted in contact with a Russian service since at least July 2025. Chancellor Merz calls the case a success but warns espionage remains high.