Pentagon official says U.S. war in Iran has cost $25 billion so far
A Pentagon official provided the first official estimate of the cost of the U.S. war in Iran on Wednesday (29 April), telling lawmakers that $25 bi...
Lithuania’s Prime Minister’s visit to Azerbaijan on 9 April signals a deepening strategic dialogue between Baku and European partners. Analysts say economic interests and geopolitical shifts are driving closer engagement.
Speaking to AnewZ, Alexandra Filippenko, political analyst, said that “we assess current relations and we agree to form a stronger cooperation and further expansion,” highlighting growing interest from both Lithuania and the broader European Union.
She emphasised that increasing trade turnover and promoting mutual investments are now key priorities, noting that “the financial part plays the biggest role.”
Filippenko pointed out that Europe is seeking to diversify its partnerships amid shifting global dynamics, adding that “it’s very important to turn to the other side… first of all, of course, to Azerbaijan.”
On Azerbaijan’s regional role, she stressed its strategic position as a bridge between Europe and Central Asia, calling it “very important” for EU member states.
She warned against external influence, stating that Lithuania understands “how important it is not to allow Russia to influence the relations between Azerbaijan and European countries.”

Discussing the role of smaller EU states, the analyst said they are becoming more influential in shaping policy, particularly in NATO and regional cooperation. She added that Azerbaijan is now “a power player not only in the region but internationally.”
She also underlined the importance of connectivity projects, logistics, and cooperation across the South Caucasus and Central Asia, noting that European countries must strengthen partnerships in response to shifting U.S. priorities.
Energy security remains a central issue, with Filippenko stating that Azerbaijan plays “a very big role” in helping Europe diversify energy sources and reduce dependency on Russia.
Finally, she highlighted the importance of cultural and academic ties, stressing that “we cannot say enough about the importance of people to people communications,” as these exchanges are essential for building long-term partnerships.
A Pentagon official provided the first official estimate of the cost of the U.S. war in Iran on Wednesday (29 April), telling lawmakers that $25 billion had so far been spent on the conflict, most of it on munitions. Earlier, Donald Trump said that the U.S. had "militarily defeated" Tehran.
President Donald Trump said on Sunday Iran could telephone if it wants to negotiate an end to their two-month war. Tehran said the U.S. should remove obstacles to a deal, including its blockade of Iran's ports. Meanwhile Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrives in St Petersburg for talks.
Tensions between the United States and Iran remain high after a U.S. official said President Donald Trump was unhappy with a proposal from Tehran that does not deal with its nuclear programme. Washington is insisting that any talks must address Iran’s nuclear activities.
The death toll from a train collision near Indonesia’s capital Jakarta rose to 14 women on Tuesday (28 April), with 84 people injured, after rescuers completed efforts to free passengers trapped in the wreckage, the state rail operator said.
The decision by the United Arab Emirates to leave OPEC+ on 1 May has put renewed focus on one of the most influential groups in global energy - and how its decisions can shape oil prices worldwide.
The President Cup 2026 continued with a dynamic programme, as the second day marked the official start of the international regatta.
A new Georgian-language broadcaster backed by Poland’s public media has launched with promises of objectivity - but it is already fuelling debate over influence, trust, and politics.
Armenia and Georgia will co-host the 2029 FIFA U-20 World Cup, the sport’s global governing body announced on Wednesday (29 April), bringing the youth tournament to the South Caucasus for the second consecutive edition after the 2027 event.
Former security chief Kamchybek Tashiev has been questioned in connection with an alleged attempt to seize power by force, Kyrgyz lawyer Sherdor Abdykaparov said.
Afghan and Russian officials have discussed expanding political, economic and security cooperation during talks in Kabul, Afghan ministries said.
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