Belarus-linked surveillance apps: An OCCRP investigation says mobile apps marketed as Lithuanian-made (e.g., Nicegram, eSIM Plus) may actually be developed and supported in Belarus, sending user data to Belarus and sometimes Russia—raising concerns they could be used to watch political exiles. EU sanctions push: The EU approved its 21st Russia sanctions package, framed as the biggest in four years, targeting banks, crypto operators, shadow fleet vessels, and energy/defense-industrial actors tied to Russia’s war economy, with Belarus included in the scope. Border hybrid pressure: Latvia says there’s no direct military threat from Russia but warns of hybrid operations and sabotage; it also describes a recent border incident on the Belarus front involving tear gas and a warning shot. Belarus IP law update: Lukashenka signed a law to streamline procedures for legal protection of intellectual property, including faster trademark/industrial property registration and rules on author remuneration for certain uses. Belarus research & education in exile: A roundtable discussed whether a fully fledged Belarusian university in exile can be built, weighing models that combine education, research, and recognized academic status. Sports eligibility dispute: World Athletics kept Russian and Belarusian track athletes banned despite IOC changes, prompting appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.