Urban Transport Update: Minsk is expanding its bus and trolleybus network, including a new route 186 linking Akademiya Navuk Metro to the International Exhibition Center, with further planned connections from Paunochny Bereg to Barysauski Trakt and route changes in Loshytsa-10 and along Golubeva Street. Independence Politics: On Belarus’ 35th Independence Day, opposition figures like Pavel Latushka and Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya pushed the message that independence must not be traded for power or pulled into Russia’s war. Security & Repression: Belarusian authorities continue tightening control—MART is preparing draft rules to sharply restrict gambling advertising online, while a Minsk resident was reportedly scammed out of nearly 140,000 rubles via a “treason” fraud scheme. Russia Alignment: Lukashenko told Russian officials Belarus sees cooperation with Russia as an “honor,” and said he plans meetings with Mishustin and Putin; Manturov also discussed the Osvey aircraft timeline. Cross-border Crime: Polish customs say a Belarusian driver tried to smuggle 150,000 packs of cigarettes hidden in roofing felt at the Bobrovniki checkpoint. Diplomacy & Identity: Belarus-North Korea ties keep deepening, with reports of a near visa-free deal for Belarusians and commentary that the regime is promoting an “Asian identity.” International Spotlight: A US C-17 landed in Moscow after departing Riga, raising questions about cargo and passengers.