Lithuanian authorities have charged 13 individuals with two attempted murders in Vilnius, allegedly orchestrated by Russia's GRU military intelligence agency. The suspects are accused of plotting to kill a Lithuanian activist and fundraiser for Ukraine, as well as a Russian dissident advocating for the rights of the Bashkir minority. The charges were announced by Lithuanian police chief Saulius Briginas, who stated that the suspects acted in the interests of the GRU.
Some of the suspects were arrested in March, and police believe they were also involved in an arson attack on Ukraine-bound military equipment in Bulgaria and espionage against the Greek military. Briginas described these actions as hybrid-style crimes against European Union countries and individuals supporting Ukraine. Russia's defense ministry did not respond to requests for comment, and Moscow has consistently denied involvement in such operations.
Lithuania has previously linked the GRU to parcel explosions in Europe and arson attempts at an Ikea store and a plant supplying radio scanners to Ukraine's army. This case adds to a pattern of prosecutions in countries like the UK, where participants have admitted acting for Russian paymasters.
Ukraine Summons Israeli Ambassador Over Stolen Grain
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga summoned Israel's ambassador to protest a shipment of allegedly stolen grain from Russian-occupied Ukrainian territory to an Israeli port. Ukraine had informed Israel in April about a previous shipment, but Sybiga expressed frustration over Israel's lack of response. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said the matter would be examined, emphasizing Israel's commitment to the rule of law. The European Union found in 2024 that Russia was illegally appropriating large volumes of grain from occupied Ukrainian territories.
Recent Attacks and Developments
A Russian drone attack on Odesa wounded 14 people, including two children, while a Ukrainian drone strike killed two elderly civilians in the Russian-occupied part of Kherson. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched approximately 1,900 attack drones, 1,400 guided aerial bombs, and 60 missiles over the past week. In Poland, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced plans to build a drone armada with Ukraine's help. Zelenskyy also revealed that Ukraine is scaling up production of ground robots, with 25,000 ordered for this year. Positive news for Ukraine includes NATO partners contributing to a financial arrangement for American weapons, the EU approving a €90 billion loan, and additional sanctions on Moscow. Ukraine continues to strike Russian oil terminals and refineries with long-range drones, aiming to disrupt Moscow's economy.
