Grid & Energy Security: Litgrid connected an 80 MW / 186.26 MWh battery storage system in Panevėžys district, the fifth commercial BESS brought online this year, aimed at faster balancing as renewables grow. Courts & Environment: Lithuania’s Supreme Court upheld that Estonia’s 2020 wolf-hunting quota was unlawful, saying the Environmental Board failed to properly account for the Bern Convention’s strict protection rules. EU Budget & War Agenda: EU leaders in Brussels agreed to push a preliminary deal on a €2 trillion long-term budget by October, while the summit’s focus stayed tightly linked to rearmament, tougher China trade stances, and tighter migration policy. Lithuania–China Diplomacy: President Nausėda said Vilnius expects early results from its diplomatic outreach to China within six months, as officials discuss possible lower-level representation changes. Border Management: Lithuania’s interior minister ordered stronger monitoring on the border with Latvia to manage secondary migration flows, using more surveillance and patrols without reintroducing internal border checks. Defense Industry: The Fourth Law and RSI Europe signed a memorandum to jointly manufacture drones in Lithuania, with Ukrainian staff prioritized and battlefield feedback built into upgrades. Local Business & Sports Culture: Dodo Pizza launched a World Cup-themed campaign across 13 countries, including Lithuania, using collectible mechanics chosen by local restaurant teams.