Week's highlights: Crimea slipping from Russia's grasp, Armenia turns westward

This week, attention is focused on Russia's waning control over Crimea and Armenia's pivot toward the West. Domestically, Tallinn's Kristiine intersection future stirs debate, while summer productions bring historical figures to the stage.

Russia's position in Crimea has become increasingly precarious, areas that Moscow has long taken for granted as its own territory are slipping ever more from its grasp. This trend is significant in broader context, as Crimea was annexed to Russia in 2014 and has been a source of tension throughout the Black Sea region ever since.

Armenia's gaze toward the West

Simultaneously with Crimea's troubles, Russia has reason to worry about its longtime ally Armenia. A country long considered a fixture in Moscow's sphere of influence is increasingly looking clearly toward the West. Armenia's rapprochement with the European Union and Western countries reflects broader shifts in the region where Russian influence is waning.

Tallinn and the Kristiine intersection

Domestically, Tallinn's Kristiine intersection future stirs debate. Plans to rebuild the intersection have sparked lively discussion between local residents and city planners over what the city's traffic arrangements should look like in the future.

Summer productions and great historical figures

On the cultural scene, this year's summer theatre season is notably dedicated to major historical figures. Theatres and open-air venues bring epic stories to audiences, tales that feature personalities who have left a significant mark on human history.

An intriguing observation also comes from the scientific world: German researchers have found the answer to the question of what the secret of pigeons' navigation is. This discovery may shed new light on how birds find their way home across long distances.