Lithuania enacts surveillance law

Lithuania has adopted a new law that, from the beginning of next year, will allow intelligence agencies to target any person with ties to Russia, including family and business relationships. According to the law, the aim is to strengthen control over personal and economic connections with Russia, reflecting Lithuanian authorities' concerns about Russia's growing influence in the region. Intelligence agencies will be able to conduct surveillance and investigations without prior court approval, and information about such connections will be collected and stored in accordance with established procedures. The law has drawn criticism in international circles, but the Lithuanian government has stated that it complies with EU legal standards and is aimed at protecting national security.