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Political scientist Félix Blanc argues that the EU lacks a unified security voice and remains overly dependent on the US, particularly regarding nuclear deterrence and military infrastructure. He contends that current initiatives like the European Defence Fund and the military mobility plan risk reinforcing this dependence rather than fostering strategic autonomy. Blanc proposes a Franco-German led initiative for nuclear disarmament and the creation of a new collective security architecture based on multilateralism and preventive disarmament to address threats from Russia, China, and regional instabilities.

The study examines pig production in the Neman/Nemunas river basin, covering Belarus, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, and Kaliningrad (Russia). It highlights a shift toward large-scale industrial farming, which now constitutes 70-85% of the sector, while noting the continued importance of household farms for food security. The report identifies significant water pollution risks from manure management, particularly diffuse-source pollution, and notes a lack of transboundary coordination. Key recommendations include promoting nutrient reuse by linking pig and crop farms, improving manure handling through technologies like biogas plants and deep-litter housing, and strengthening regulatory frameworks to include small-scale producers.

The document argues that while the Baltic Sea Region has a strong tradition of environmental co-operation, it is not yet on a path toward sustainable development. It proposes 'Baltic 21', a regional action programme designed to bridge economic disparities between the West Baltic Region (WBR) and East Baltic Region (EBR) while addressing critical environmental threats. The report identifies key risks including eutrophication of the Baltic Sea, acid rain, and the environmental legacy of Soviet-era industry in Russia and Poland. It emphasizes the need for a holistic approach that integrates sustainability into key sectors—energy, agriculture, forestry, transport, and industry—and leverages the influence of the European Union's pre-accession strategies to harmonize environmental standards across the region.