On December 23, the Lithuanian parliament approved amendments to the law that greatly strengthen the role of intelligence services.
According to Ukrinform, this was confirmed by the agency Delfi.

The amendments were supported by 68 members of the Seimas. There were no votes against, although eight MPs chose to abstain.

These amendments redefine the mission of intelligence: it is now tasked not just with predicting and identifying risks but also with actively eliminating threats.

In exceptional cases, where national security is threatened, intelligence officers have been granted the right to surveil suspects, enter their premises and vehicles, and track financial transactions without a court order.

In such instances, the head of the intelligence agency or their authorized deputy must apply to the court for permission to continue operations within 24 hours.

If permission is not granted, the intelligence agency must immediately cease operations, inform the oversight inspector, provide them with the data collection decision, the court ruling, and promptly destroy the collected information.

According to the new amendments, intelligence officers are also authorized to secretly obtain biometric data, voice samples, and other specimens, as well as purchase explosive materials.

Explosive devices can only be used in exceptional circumstances when absolutely necessary.
Additionally, intelligence services are allowed to enlist the main criminal investigation agencies for assistance.

These changes will apply to employees of the State Security Department and the Second Operational Services Department of Lithuania.

Canadian intelligence agencies successfully thwarted several attempts to illegally export sanctioned goods to Russia.