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Ukrainian President Zelenskyy called for a joint European air defense system to counter Russian drone threats, citing recent incursions in Poland, Denmark, and Romania. NATO countries are increasing security measures amid ongoing regional tensions and Russian drone activity, with Ukraine claiming its military can neutralize most threats.
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As of early November 2025, Lithuania has indefinitely closed its Šalčininkai border crossing with Belarus and restricted passage at Medininkai following repeated incursions of helium balloons carrying contraband cigarettes into its airspace. These incidents disrupted flights at Vilnius and Kaunas airports multiple times last week, prompting national security measures and discussions of NATO consultations.
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DNA analysis of soldiers' remains from Napoleon's 1812 retreat in Vilnius uncovered pathogens causing paratyphoid fever and relapsing fever. These infections, alongside cold and starvation, contributed to high mortality. The findings, published in Current Biology, deepen understanding of the health conditions faced by the troops.
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Dmitry Kurashov, 28, was found guilty of killing Ukrainian soldier Vitalii Hodniuk after his surrender in January 2024. The court in Zaporizhzhia sentenced him, marking a rare legal action against a Russian soldier for war crimes. Kurashov expressed no intention to appeal. The case highlights ongoing investigations into wartime executions and international efforts to hold perpetrators accountable.
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On December 9, 2025, Lithuania declared a state of emergency due to repeated incursions of weather balloons and drones from Belarus, which have disrupted Vilnius airport operations and civil aviation. Lithuania accuses Belarus of orchestrating a hybrid attack involving smuggling contraband cigarettes and destabilizing national security. The emergency grants military powers to coordinate with law enforcement to counter these threats.
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Remigijus Žemaitaitis, a Lithuanian lawmaker and leader of the Nemunas Dawn party, was fined €5,000 for social media posts that falsely blamed Jews for historical crimes and minimized the Holocaust. He plans to appeal, amid ongoing debates over hate speech and political accountability in Lithuania. The case highlights rising antisemitism in the region.
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Lithuania has declared a nationwide emergency over a surge in Belarusian balloons used for cigarette smuggling. The balloons disrupt flights and border security, with authorities suspecting Belarusian involvement in a hybrid attack aimed at destabilizing Lithuania amid tense regional relations.
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Belarus has released 123 political prisoners, including opposition figures Maria Kalesnikava and Ales Bialiatski, following negotiations with the US over sanctions. The move signals a potential shift in Belarus' relations with the West amid ongoing political repression.