The Lithuanian capital Vilnius has unveiled a comprehensive evacuation plan designed to prepare its approximately 600,000 residents for potential emergencies, including natural disasters, infrastructure accidents, nuclear incidents, hybrid attacks, and military invasions. The plan was announced amid growing concerns over Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine and fears that Lithuania, a NATO member, could be the next target. Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas highlighted that the plan includes three primary evacuation routes heading west, reflecting the historical pattern of threats coming from the east. Authorities aim to evacuate the city within 48 hours if necessary, advising residents to move as far west as possible from the front lines. This initiative underscores Lithuania's efforts to enhance civilian safety in the face of escalating regional tensions. Separately, Latvia's president has approved legislation for the country's withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, which bans anti-personnel mines.

Latvia has formally ratified its withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, a treaty that prohibits the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines. The country had been a party to the treaty for 20 years before deciding to exit, citing concerns over the Russian threat as the primary reason for the decision. Latvian officials have stated that this withdrawal will provide their armed forces with greater flexibility to use all possible means for defense. The government proposal to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention has been sent out for public comments, with feedback on the draft proposal accepted until May 16, 2025. This move marks a significant policy shift in Latvia's approach to landmine usage amid regional security concerns.

Kristaps Porzingis, the Boston Celtics center, has confirmed his intention to represent Latvia at the FIBA EuroBasket 2025, which will be held in Riga. This marks a potential return for Porzingis to the Latvian national team. Following the tournament, Sito Alonso, aged 49, will take over as the head coach of Latvia, succeeding Luca Banchi. Alonso will assume the role after EuroBasket 2025 and will also continue coaching UCAM Murcia concurrently.

Germany, Latvia, and Norway have entered into a multilateral procurement agreement for DM22 directional anti-tank mines, aimed at enhancing European cooperation and NATO's collective defense capabilities. The agreement was confirmed by Germany's Arms Director, Vice Admiral Stawitzki, who emphasized the importance of efficient arms procurement and interoperability among NATO allies. Deliveries of the anti-tank mines are expected to commence in 2027. The defense sector is experiencing growth, with companies such as Rheinmetall, Diehl, and Kraus-Maffei Wegmann creating numerous new job opportunities.

Kenya and Latvia are set to strengthen their diplomatic relations as Latvia plans to establish a consulate in Nairobi by the end of 2025. This initiative aims to enhance business ties between the two nations. The Latvian Ambassador Andris Razans, who is currently based in Egypt, attended a business forum in Nairobi, which underscores the growing interest in fostering economic collaboration. The opening of the consulate is expected to streamline business operations and facilitate interactions between the two countries.

The Lithuanian capital Vilnius has unveiled a comprehensive evacuation plan designed to prepare its approximately 600,000 residents for potential emergencies, including natural disasters, infrastructure accidents, nuclear incidents, hybrid attacks, and military invasions. The plan was announced amid growing concerns over Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine and fears that Lithuania, a NATO member, could be the next target. Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas highlighted that the plan includes three primary evacuation routes heading west, reflecting the historical pattern of threats coming from the east. Authorities aim to evacuate the city within 48 hours if necessary, advising residents to move as far west as possible from the front lines. This initiative underscores Lithuania's efforts to enhance civilian safety in the face of escalating regional tensions. Separately, Latvia's president has approved legislation for the country's withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, which bans anti-personnel mines.

Latvia has formally ratified its withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, a treaty that prohibits the use, stockpiling, production, and transfer of anti-personnel mines. The country had been a party to the treaty for 20 years before deciding to exit, citing concerns over the Russian threat as the primary reason for the decision. Latvian officials have stated that this withdrawal will provide their armed forces with greater flexibility to use all possible means for defense. The government proposal to withdraw from the Ottawa Convention has been sent out for public comments, with feedback on the draft proposal accepted until May 16, 2025. This move marks a significant policy shift in Latvia's approach to landmine usage amid regional security concerns.

Kristaps Porzingis, the Boston Celtics center, has confirmed his intention to represent Latvia at the FIBA EuroBasket 2025, which will be held in Riga. This marks a potential return for Porzingis to the Latvian national team. Following the tournament, Sito Alonso, aged 49, will take over as the head coach of Latvia, succeeding Luca Banchi. Alonso will assume the role after EuroBasket 2025 and will also continue coaching UCAM Murcia concurrently.

Germany, Latvia, and Norway have entered into a multilateral procurement agreement for DM22 directional anti-tank mines, aimed at enhancing European cooperation and NATO's collective defense capabilities. The agreement was confirmed by Germany's Arms Director, Vice Admiral Stawitzki, who emphasized the importance of efficient arms procurement and interoperability among NATO allies. Deliveries of the anti-tank mines are expected to commence in 2027. The defense sector is experiencing growth, with companies such as Rheinmetall, Diehl, and Kraus-Maffei Wegmann creating numerous new job opportunities.

Kenya and Latvia are set to strengthen their diplomatic relations as Latvia plans to establish a consulate in Nairobi by the end of 2025. This initiative aims to enhance business ties between the two nations. The Latvian Ambassador Andris Razans, who is currently based in Egypt, attended a business forum in Nairobi, which underscores the growing interest in fostering economic collaboration. The opening of the consulate is expected to streamline business operations and facilitate interactions between the two countries.