EU Council Presidency Agenda: Lithuania’s President Gitanas Nausėda says the country will push defense, internal and social security, EU enlargement and a stronger EU-NATO transatlantic bond during its EU Council presidency starting Jan. 1, 2027. Government Reshuffle: Social Democrat leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius says he will replace PM Inga Ruginienė and lead a new coalition after Dawn of Nemunas was dropped, with a cabinet expected to be unveiled Thursday. Drone and Security Focus: Sinkevičius’ move comes as Lithuania stays on high alert after repeated drone incursions, including a recent incident that led to Vilnius airport closure. Counter-Drone Cooperation: At Eurosatory 2026, the U.S. Army signed a letter of intent to expand a Counter-UAS Marketplace, bringing allies including Lithuania into faster joint procurement and training. Landmines Warning: The UN human rights chief reports at least 58 states and territories are contaminated by anti-personnel mines, with civilians making up about 90% of recorded casualties in 2024. Culture and Heritage: Lithuania’s culture minister condemned damage to Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, calling it an attack on world cultural heritage and a potential war crime. Energy Storage in Lithuania: European Energy started operations on a 25 MW/65 MWh battery project in Anykščiai, paired with a solar park, to boost grid flexibility. EU Emissions Snapshot: Eurostat says EU greenhouse gas emissions fell 17.2% since 2015, but Lithuania rose 9.5% over the same period.