Lithuania’s new government and China reset: Mindaugas Sinkevicius became prime minister after parliament backed his cabinet, pledging to keep defence spending above 5% of GDP and to maintain US troop presence, while also saying the 2021 decision to allow Taiwan’s de-facto embassy in Lithuania was “maybe too brave” as he moves to normalise ties with Beijing. Defence and NATO momentum: A Reuters analysis argues Europe’s defence build-up is now showing results in budgets, production and procurement, with Lithuania among the frontline states pushing toward 5% spending. Sports diplomacy pressure: Nine EU countries, including Lithuania, urged the EU to cut funding to sports bodies that have allowed Russian and Belarusian athletes back, setting up a clash with the Olympic movement. EU enlargement “Super Tuesday”: Albania, Montenegro, Moldova and Ukraine advanced in accession talks as EU negotiators opened or closed negotiating tracks in one of the bloc’s biggest enlargement pushes in decades. Digital euro pilot: The ECB selected 36 payment providers for the digital euro pilot starting in late 2027, aiming to test operations and user experience ahead of a possible 2029 launch. Energy support for Ukraine: Lithuanian grid and gas operators EPSO-G partners are sending equipment to help restore Ukraine’s energy infrastructure after attacks. Baltic Way memorial in Paris: A commemorative plaque for the 1989 Baltic Way human chain was unveiled in Paris, linking the message of freedom to today’s Ukraine. Vilnius diaspora culture: A Lithuanian community festival in Mullingar, Ireland, drew nearly 1,000 visitors and featured Lithuania’s ambassador to Ireland.