Russia

Ukraine criticized the decision to pay €3 billion of frozen Russian assets to Western companies, calling it a threat to European unity in the war.

Russian and U.S. delegations met in Istanbul to discuss restoring diplomatic missions, including the return of seized properties and visa-related matters.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky outlined key topics for negotiations with Russia in Istanbul, focusing on ceasefire and humanitarian issues.

Despite sanctions, Russia increased its revenues from energy exports, earning over $80 billion in 2024. The European Union remains its main buyer.

Russia is building new transmission lines in occupied territories to connect the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant to its grid, ignoring international objections and Ukraine’s ownership.

Hungary and Serbia are building a new oil pipeline to transport Russian oil, bypassing Ukraine, despite EU sanctions and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

China systematically supplies Russia with special chemicals, gunpowder, drone electronics, and equipment for military factories, violating international sanctions.

Zelensky’s call to FIFA President Infantino disrupted efforts to reintegrate Russia into international football.

Russia declares readiness for a prolonged war against Ukraine, using it as a tool to psychologically pressure Kyiv and Western allies into concessions.

Finnish President says Trump is losing patience with Russia over its delay in ending the war in Ukraine; US preparing new sanctions targeting Russian energy trade.